Animal Health Act 1981

Part I E+W+S General

General powers of Ministers to make orders and to authorise regulations E+W+S

1 General powers of Ministers to make orders. E+W+S

The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit—

(a) generally for the better execution of this Act, or for the purpose of in any manner preventing the spreading of disease; and

(b) in particular for the several purposes set out in this Act, and for prescribing and regulating the payment and recovery of expenses in respect of animals.

2 Local authority regulations. E+W+S

The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for authorising a local authority to make regulations for any of the purposes—

(a) of this Act, or

(b) of an order of the Minister,

subject to such conditions, if any, as the Ministers for the purpose of securing uniformity and the due execution of this Act, think fit to prescribe.

Eradication and prevention of disease E+W+S

3 Expenditure for eradication. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may, with the Treasury’s approval, expend such sums as they think fit with the object of eradicating as far as practicable diseases of animals (including horses) in Great Britain.

In this subsection “disease” is not restricted by its definition in this Act.

(2) To obtain information required for the purposes of subsection (1) above the Ministers may authorise in writing any veterinary inspector or other officer of the Ministry to inspect animals (including horses).

(3) A person so authorised may, for the purpose of any inspection to be carried out by him—

(a) at all reasonable times, and

(b) upon production of his authority on demand,

enter on any land or premises and apply such tests and take such samples as he considers necessary.

(4) No payment may be made under subsection (1) which was capable of being made under section 3 of the M1 Diseases of Animals Act 1950 (payments for the eradication of bovine tuberculosis) before the expiry of that section.

Marginal Citations

M1 1950 c. 36.

4 Offences as to s. 3. E+W+S

(1) A person who knowingly or recklessly makes any false statement for the purpose of obtaining for himself or any other person any sum payable under section 3 above shall (unless in the case of an indictable offence he is indicted for the offence) be liable on summary conviction—

(a) to a fine not exceeding [F1 level 3 on the standard scale]; or

(b) to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months; or

(c) to both such imprisonment and fine.

(2) A person who obstructs or impedes any person duly authorised under subsection (2) of section 3 to make any inspection shall be liable on summary conviction—

(a) in the case of a first offence, to a fine not exceeding £50; and

(b) in the case of a second or subsequent offence punishable under this subsection—

(i) to a fine not exceeding £50; or

(ii) to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one month; or

(iii) to both such imprisonment and fine.

In considering for the purposes of this subsection or subsection (2) of section 30 of the M2 Agriculture Act 1937 whether an offence is or is not a first offence, references to an offence punishable under this subsection or that subsection shall be taken as including references to offences punishable under that subsection or this subsection, as the case may be.

Textual Amendments

F1 Words substituted by virtue of (E.W.) Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48, SIF 39:1), ss. 38, 46 and (S.) Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21, SIF 39:1), ss. 289F, 289G

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 S. 4(2): Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21, SIF 39:1), ss. 289E (in relation to liability on first and subsequent convictions), 289F (increase of fines) and 289G (substitution of references to levels on the standard scale apply) (S.)

C2 S. 4(2): Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48, SIF 39:1), ss. 35 (in relation to liability on first and subsequent convictions), 38 (increase of fines) and 46 (substitution of references to levels on the standard scale) apply (E.W.)

Marginal Citations

M2 1937 c. 70.

5 Veterinary services and therapeutic substances. E+W+S

(1) Without prejudice to the generality of section 3 above, the Ministers have power, with the Treasury’s approval, to afford veterinary services, including diagnostic services, whether free of charge or not, to persons—

(a) who carry on livestock businesses; and

(b) who participate in arrangements approved by the Ministers as being satisfactory arrangements for keeping their stock so far as practicable free from disease and in good health.

In this subsection “disease” is not restricted by its definition in this Act.

(2) Schedule 1 to this Act has effect in relation to the regulation of the manufacture of and other matters connected with veterinary therapeutic substances.

6 Eradication areas and attested areas. E+W+S

The Ministers may make orders—

(a) declaring any area as respects which they are satisfied that a substantial majority of the cattle in that area are free from any particular disease to be an eradication area for purposes connected with the control of that disease;

(b) declaring any area as respects which they are satisfied that any particular disease of cattle is for practical purposes non-existent in that area to be an attested area for purposes connected with the control of that disease; and

(c) prohibiting or regulating the movement of cattle into, out of or within any area which is for the time being an eradication area or an attested area or, if the area is an eradication area or an attested area for purposes connected with the control of brucellosis, imposing with respect to cattle in that area such other prohibitions or requirements as they may consider necessary or desirable for the purpose of eradicating that disease.

[F2 6A Biosecurity guidance E+W+S

(1) The Secretary of State must prepare guidance on the appropriate biosecurity measures to be taken in relation to—

(a) foot-and-mouth disease;

(b) such other disease as the Secretary of State by order specifies.

(2) After preparing a draft of the guidance the Secretary of State—

(a) must send a copy of the draft to such persons and organisations as he thinks are representative of those having an interest in biosecurity measures;

(b) must consider any representations made to him about the draft by such persons and organisations;

(c) may amend the draft accordingly.

(3) After the Secretary of State has proceeded under subsection (2) he must publish the guidance in such manner as he thinks appropriate.

(4) The Secretary of State must from time to time review the guidance and if he thinks it appropriate revise the guidance.

(5) Subsections (1) to (3) apply to a revision of the guidance as they apply to its preparation.

(6) But if the Secretary of State thinks that it is necessary to revise the guidance urgently he may publish revised guidance without proceeding under subsection (2).

(7) Biosecurity measures are measures taken to prevent the spread of causative agents of disease.

(8) Causative agent includes any virus, bacterium and any other organism or infectious substance which may cause or transmit disease.

(9) The power to make an order must be exercised by statutory instrument subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(10) It is immaterial that anything done for the purposes of subsections (1) to (3) is done before the passing of the Animal Health Act 2002.]

Textual Amendments

F2 S. 6A - S. 6B inserted (E.W.) (1.7.2003) by Animal Health Act 2002 (c. 42), ss. 16, 19(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3 S. 6A applied (28.8.2003) by Avian Influenza and Nescastle Disease (Biosecurity Guidance and Disease Control Slaughter Protocol) (England and Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2035), arts. 1, 2

[F2 6B Biosecurity compliance E+W+S

(1) A person having a function under this Act relating to foot-and -mouth disease or a disease specified by order under section 6A(1) must not exercise the function unless the guidance under section 6A has been published and has not been withdrawn.

(2) Any act which is done in contravention of subsection (1) is done without lawful authority.

(3) If a person to whom subsection (5) applies fails to comply with the guidance he is not by reason only of that failure liable in any civil or criminal proceedings.

(4) But the guidance is admissible in evidence in such proceedings and a court may take account of any failure to act in accordance with it in deciding any question in the proceedings.

(5) This subsection applies to—

(a) any person having functions under this Act;

(b) any person who is the owner or occupier of premises on which animals are kept;

(c) any person who has charge of animals;

(d) any person who is under the direction of a person mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (c).]

Textual Amendments

F2 S. 6A - S. 6B inserted (E.W.) (1.7.2003) by Animal Health Act 2002 (c. 42), ss. 16, 19(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2(b)

Cleansing and movement E+W+S

7 Cleansing and disinfection. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit—

(a) for prescribing and regulating the cleansing and disinfection of places used for the holding of markets, fairs, exhibitions, or sales of animals, or for lairage of animals, and yards, sheds, stables, and other places used for animals;

(b) for prescribing and regulating the cleansing and disinfection of vessels, aircraft, vehicles, and pens and other places, used for the carrying of animals for hire or connected purposes;

(c) for prescribing and regulating the disinfection of the clothes of persons coming in contact with or employed about diseased or suspected animals and the use of precautions against the spreading of disease by such persons;

(d) for prescribing modes of cleansing and disinfection.

(2) The Ministers may by orders prescribe and regulate the cleansing and disinfection of receptacles or vehicles used for the conveyance or exposure for sale of poultry.

8 Movement generally. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit—

(a) for prescribing and regulating the marking of animals;

(b) for prohibiting or regulating the movement of animals, and the removal of carcases, fodder, litter, dung and other things, and for prescribing and regulating the isolation of animals newly purchased;

(c) for prescribing and regulating the issue and production of licences respecting movement and removal of animals and things;

(d) for prohibiting, absolutely or conditionally, the use, for the carrying of animals or for any connected purpose, of a vessel, aircraft, vehicle, or pen or other place in respect of which or the use of which a penalty has been recovered from any person for an offence against this Act;

(e) for prohibiting or regulating the holding of markets, fairs, exhibitions and sales of animals.

(2) A person is guilty of an offence against this Act if, where an order of the Minister absolutely or conditionally prohibits the use of a vessel, aircraft, vehicle or pen, or other place, for the carrying of animals or for any connected purpose, he, without lawful authority or excuse, proof of which shall lie on him, does anything so prohibited.

Transport by sea and air E+W+S

9 Prohibition in specific cases. E+W+S

The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for prohibiting the conveyance of animals by any specified vessel or aircraft to or from any port or aerodrome in the United Kingdom [F3 or by any specified vehicle through the tunnel system as defined in the Channel Tunnel Act 1987] for such time as the Ministers may consider expedient.

Textual Amendments

F3 Words inserted by S.I. 1990/2371, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

10 Importation. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may by orders make such provision as they think fit for the purpose of preventing the introduction or spreading of disease into or within Great Britain through the importation of—

(a) animals and carcases;

(b) carcases of poultry and eggs; and

(c) other things, whether animate or inanimate, by or by means of which it appears to them that any disease might be carried or transmitted.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of the powers conferred by this section and by section 1 above, for the purpose specified in subsection (1) above an order under this section—

(a) may prohibit or regulate the importation of any of the things specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (1);

(b) may make provision not only with respect to imports (including vessels, boats, aircraft and vehicles of other descriptions) but also with respect to persons, animals, and other things which have been or may have been in contact with imports;

(c) may make different provision in relation to different cases; and

(d) may make provision with respect to any of the matters specified in Schedule 2 to this Act.

(3) An order under this section may provide that, in such circumstances as may be specified in the order, animals which—

(a) are brought into Great Britain in such circumstances that they are not imported, within the meaning of this Act, and

(b) whilst outside Great Britain have been or may have been in contact with any of the things specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (1),

shall be deemed for the purposes of this section and Schedule 2 to be imported at the time when they are brought into Great Britain.

(4) In this section and in Schedule 2 “animals” includes—

(a) any kind of mammal, except man,

(b) any kind of four-footed beast which is not a mammal, and

(c) fish, reptiles, crustaceans and other cold-blooded creatures not falling within paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) above,

and “disease” is not restricted by its definition in this Act.

(5) An order under this section which is expressed to be made for the purpose of preventing the introduction of rabies into Great Britain may include provision for the destruction, by such persons as may be prescribed by the order, of animals in respect of which the order or any licence granted under it is contravened.

(6) Every order made under this section shall be laid before both Houses of Parliament after being made.

(7) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of section 5(2) of the M3 Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 (time of importation of goods brought by sea and air) [F4 and [F5 article 5(1) and (2)] of the Channel Tunnel (Customs and Excise) Order 1990] have effect for the purposes of this section and Schedule 2 as they have effect for the purposes of the customs and excise Acts.

(8) The landing of imported animals in Great Britain shall be effected in such manner, at such times and subject to such supervision as the Commissioners of Customs and Excise may direct.

Textual Amendments

F4 Words inserted by S.I. 1990/2371, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

F5 Words in s. 10(7) substituted (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/3237, arts. 1, 8(1), Sch. 5 Pt. 1 para.2.

Marginal Citations

M3 1979 c. 2.

[F6 10A Annual review of import controls E+W

(1) The Ministers shall prepare a report during each financial year which will—

(a) review all activities of government departments, the Food Standards Agency, local authorities, customs, police authorities and other relevant public agencies directed to the prevention of the introduction of disease into or within England and Wales through the importation of animal products and matter, whether animate or inanimate, and other things;

(b) identify the nature, origin and quantity of such animal products and matter and stating whether the product or matter was destined for personal or commercial consumption;

(c) assess the making of any orders under section 10 of this Act;

(d) assess the effectiveness of any action taken under an order made under section 10 of this Act; and

(e) propose such further action as may, on the basis of advice given to the Ministers by suitably qualified individuals appointed as scientific advisers to the Ministers, be required to further reduce the risk of disease being imported.

(2) The Ministers shall lay their report before Parliament and the National Assembly for Wales at the end of each financial year.]

Textual Amendments

F6 S. 10A inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 17; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

11 Export to member States. E+W+S

The Minister may by order make provision in the interests of animal health or of human health, for regulating the exportation from Great Britain to a member State of animals or animal or poultry carcases, and in particular—

(a) for prohibiting exportation without such certificate or licence as may be prescribed by the order, and

(b) as to the circumstances in which and conditions on which a certificate or licence may be obtained.

12 Export quarantine stations. E+W+S

(1) For the purpose of preventing the conveyance of disease by animals exported from Great Britain, the appropriate Minister, with the Treasury’s consent, may—

(a) provide facilities for the examination of animals intended for export; and

(b) provide or approve one or more quarantine stations for the reception, isolation and examination of such animals.

A quarantine station so provided or approved is in this Act referred to as an “export quarantine station”.

(2) Notwithstanding anything in this Act, compensation shall not be payable under this Act in respect of any animal intended for export, which by reason of—

(a) its having been diseased or suspected, or

(b) its having been exposed to the infection of any disease, is slaughtered in an export quarantine station.

Control of dogs, and preventive treatment of sheep E+W+S

13 Orders as to dogs. E+W+S

(1) The Minister may make such orders as he thinks fit for prescribing and regulating—

(a) the muzzling of dogs, and the keeping of dogs under control; and

(b) so far as is supplemental to paragraph (a) above—

(i) the seizure, detention, and disposal (including slaughter) of stray dogs and of dogs not muzzled, and of dogs not being kept under control; and

(ii) the recovery from the owners of dogs of the expenses incurred in respect of their detention.

(2) The appropriate Minister may make such orders as he thinks fit—

(a) for prescribing and regulating the wearing by dogs, while in a highway or in a place of public resort, of a collar with the name and address of the owner inscribed on the collar or on a plate or a badge attached to it;

(b) with a view to the prevention of worrying of animals (including horses), for preventing dogs or any class of dogs from straying during all or any of the hours between sunset and sunrise;

(c) for providing that any dog in respect of which an offence is being committed against provisions made under either paragraph (a) or (b) above, may be seized and treated as a stray dog under the enactments relating to dogs;

(d) for prescribing and regulating—

(i) the seizure, detention and disposal (including slaughter) of stray dogs and of dogs not muzzled; and

(ii) the recovery from the owners of dogs of the expenses incurred in respect of their detention.

[F7 (3) An order under subsection (2)(a) above may include provision for the execution and enforcement of the order by the officers of local authorities (and not by the police force for any area).

(4) In subsection (3) above “local authority” and “officer” have the same meaning as in section 149 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.]

Textual Amendments

F7 S. 13(3)(4) inserted (14.2.1992 for certain purposes and 1.4.1992 in so far as not already in force) by Environmental Protection Act 1990 (c. 43, SIF 46:4), s. 151(1); S.I. 1992/266, arts.2, 3.

14 Prevention of sheep scab. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for prescribing, regulating and securing the periodical treatment of all sheep by effective dipping or by the use of some other remedy for sheep scab.

(2) An inspector of the Minister and, if so authorised by order of the Minister, an inspector of the local authority, may—

(a) subject to the directions of the authority by which he was appointed, and

(b) for the purposes of any order or regulation under subsection (1) above,

enter any premises and examine any sheep on those premises.

(3) The owner and the person in charge of any sheep shall comply with all reasonable requirements of the inspector as to the collection and penning of the sheep and afford all other reasonable facilities for the examination of the sheep by the inspector.

Part II E+W+S Disease

Outbreak E+W+S

[F8 14A National contingency plan E+W+S

(1) The appropriate authority must prepare a document (the national contingency plan) indicating the arrangements the authority intends to put in place for the purpose of dealing with any occurrence of—

(a) foot-and-mouth disease;

(b) such other disease as the authority by order specifies.

(2) After preparing a draft of the national contingency plan the appropriate authority—

(a) must send a copy of the draft to such persons and organisations as the authority thinks are representative of those having an interest in the arrangements;

(b) must consider any representations made to the authority about the draft by such persons and organisations;

(c) may amend the draft accordingly.

(3) After the appropriate authority has proceeded under subsection (2) the authority must—

(a) lay the plan before Parliament (unless subsection (9) applies);

(b) publish it in such manner as the authority thinks likely to bring it to the attention of persons who may be affected by the arrangements.

(4) The appropriate authority must from time to time (but not less frequently than at intervals of one year) review the plan and if the authority thinks it appropriate revise the plan.

(5) Subsections (2) and (3) apply to a revision of the plan as they apply to its preparation.

(6) The power to make an order must be exercised by statutory instrument.

(7) The instrument is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament (unless subsection (9) applies).

(8) The appropriate authority is—

(a) the Secretary of State in relation to England;

(b) the Secretary of State and the National Assembly for Wales acting jointly in relation to Wales (except for the purposes of subsection (1)(b));

(c) the National Assembly for Wales in relation to Wales for the purposes of subsection (1)(b).

(9) This subsection applies to a plan prepared in relation to Wales.

(10) It is immaterial that anything done for the purposes of subsections (1) to (3) (except the making of an order under subsection (1)(b)) is done before the passing of the Animal Health Act 2002.]

Textual Amendments

F8 S. 14A inserted (E.W.) (24.3.2003) by Animal Health Act 2002 (c. 42), ss. 18, 19(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2(c)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4 S. 14A applied (E.) (28.8.2003) by Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease (Contingency Planning) (England) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2036), arts. 1, 2

C5 S. 14A applied (W.) (20.10.2005) by Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease (Contingency Planning) (Wales) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/2840), arts. 1(1), 2

[F9 14B Duty to consider vaccination E+W

(1) In relation to any occurrence of foot-and-mouth disease the Secretary of State must consider what is the most appropriate means of preventing the spread of the disease.

(2) In particular he must consider whether in relation to the occurrence treating animals with serum or vaccine is more appropriate than any other means of preventing the spread of the disease.]

Textual Amendments

F9 S. 14B inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 15; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

15 Separation and notice. E+W+S

(1) Any person having in his possession or under his charge an animal affected with disease shall—

(a) as far as practicable keep that animal separate from animals not so affected; and

(b) with all practicable speed give notice of the fact of the animnal being so affected to a constable of the police force for the police area in which the animal is so affected.

(2) Any person who knows or suspects that an animal (whether in captivity or not) is affected with rabies shall give notice of that fact to a constable unless—

(a) he believes on reasonable grounds that another person has given notice under this section in respect of that animal, or

(b) he is exempted from doing so by an order under section 1 above,

and, if the animal is in his possession or under his charge, shall as far as practicable keep the animal separate from other animals.

(3) The constable to whom notice is given shall forthwith give information of it to such person or authority as the Ministers by order direct.

(4) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for prescribing and regulating the notice to be given to or by any person or authority in case of any particular disease or in case of the illness of an animal, and for supplementing or varying for those purposes any of the provisions of subsections (1) to (3) above.

(5) Subsections (1) to (4) above do not have effect in relation to poultry, but the Ministers may by order prescribe and regulate—

(a) the separation of diseased poultry from poultry not affected with disease; and

(b) the notification of disease in, or illness of, poultry.

(6) The local authority shall pay to a veterinary surgeon or veterinary practitioner, in respect of every notification of disease made by him to the local authority in pursuance of an order under this Act requiring such a notification, such fee not exceeding 12½p as may be prescribed by the order.

(7) A person is guilty of an offence against this Act who, without lawful authority or excuse, proof of which shall lie on him, fails where required by this Act or by an order of the Minister—

(a) to keep an animal separate so far as practicable; or

(b) to give notice of disease with all practicable speed.

16 Treatment after exposure to infection. E+W

(1) For the purpose of preventing the spread of disease, the Ministers may cause to be treated with serum or vaccine, or with both serum and vaccine, any animal or bird—

(a) which has been in contact with a diseased animal or bird, or

(b) which appears to the Ministers to be or to have been in any way exposed to the infection of disease; or

(c) which is in an infected area.

(2) The powers conferred by this section shall be construed as extending to the taking of any action—

(a) which is requisite for enabling the appropriate treatment to be administered, or

(b) which is otherwise required in connection with that treatment,

and for the purpose of exercising those powers any [F10 inspector] may, subject to production of his authority on demand, enter any land or premises F11 . . ..

[F12 (3) If a justice of the peace is satisfied on sworn information in writing that the first condition is satisfied and that the second or third condition is satisfied he may issue a warrant authorising an inspector to enter any land or premises, if necessary using reasonable force, for the purpose mentioned in subsection (2).

(4) The information must include—

(a) a statement as to whether any representations have been made by the occupier of the land or premises to an inspector concerning the purpose for which the warrant is sought;

(b) a summary of any such representations.

(5) The first condition is that there are reasonable grounds for an inspector to enter the land or premises for that purpose.

(6) The second condition is that each of the following applies to the occupier of the premises—

(a) he has been informed of the decision to seek entry to the premises and of the reasons for that decision;

(b) he has failed to allow entry to the premises on being requested to do so by an inspector;

(c) he has been informed of the decision to apply for the warrant.

(7) The third condition is that—

(a) the premises are unoccupied or the occupier is absent and (in either case) notice of intention to apply for the warrant has been left in a conspicuous place on the premises, or

(b) an application for admission to the premises or the giving of notice of intention to apply for the warrant would defeat the object of entering the premises.

(8) Subsections (9) to (12) apply to an inspector who enters any land or premises by virtue of subsection (2) or under a warrant issued under subsection (3).

(9) The inspector may take with him—

(a) such other persons as he thinks necessary to give him such assistance as he thinks necessary;

(b) such equipment as he thinks necessary.

(10) The inspector may require any person on the land or premises who falls within subsection (11) to give him such assistance as he may reasonably require for the purpose mentioned in subsection (2).

(11) The following persons fall within this subsection—

(a) the occupier of the premises;

(b) a person appearing to the inspector to have charge of animals on the premises;

(c) a person appearing to the inspector to be under the direction or control of a person mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b).

(12) If the inspector enters any unoccupied premises he must leave them as effectively secured against entry as he found them.

(13) If the inspector enters any premises by virtue of a warrant issued under subsection (3) he must at the time of entry—

(a) serve a copy of the warrant on the occupier of the premises, or (if the occupier is not on the premises)

(b) leave a copy of the warrant in a conspicuous place on the premises.

(14) A warrant issued under subsection (3) remains in force for one month starting with the date of its approval by the justice of the peace, which date shall be clearly visible on the warrant.

(15) A warrant issued under subsection (3) must be executed only at a reasonable hour unless the inspector thinks that the case is one of urgency.

(16) In relation to any premises to which entry is obtained by virtue of a warrant under this section the Secretary of State must retain for a period of not less than 12 months beginning with the day after entry—

(a) a copy of the warrant;

(b) a copy of any record of the steps taken to effect entry to the premises and the actions taken on the premises by the inspector and any other person entering the premises with him.

(17) A person commits an offence if—

(a) he is required to give assistance under subsection (10), and

(b) he fails to give it.]

Extent Information

E1 This version of this provision extends to England and Wales only; a separate version has been created for Scotland only

Textual Amendments

F10 Words in s. 16(2) substituted (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 12(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F11 Words in s. 16(2) omitted (14.1.2003) by virtue of 2002 c. 42, s. 12(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F12 S. 16(3)-(17) inserted (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 12(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

16 Treatment after exposure to infection. S

(1) For the purpose of preventing the spread of disease, the Ministers may cause to be treated with serum or vaccine, or with both serum and vaccine, any animal or bird—

(a) which has been in contact with a diseased animal or bird, or

(b) which appears to the Ministers to be or to have been in any way exposed to the infection of disease; or

(c) which is in an infected area.

(2) The powers conferred by this section shall be construed as extending to the taking of any action—

(a) which is requisite for enabling the appropriate treatment to be administered, or

(b) which is otherwise required in connection with that treatment,

and for the purpose of exercising those powers any officer of the Minister may, subject to production of his authority on demand, enter any land or premises taking with him such other persons, if any, as he considers requisite.

Extent Information

E5 This version of this provision extends to Scotland only; a separate version has been created for England and Wales only

[F13 16A Slaughter of vaccinated animals E+W

(1) This section applies to any animal which has been treated with vaccine for the purpose of preventing the spread of foot-and-mouth disease or such other disease as the Secretary of State may by order specify.

(2) The Secretary of State may cause to be slaughtered any animal to which this section applies.

(3) The power conferred by this section extends to taking any action—

(a) which is required to enable any such animal to be slaughtered, or

(b) which is otherwise required in connection with the slaughter.

(4) For any animal slaughtered under this section the Secretary of State must pay compensation in accordance with subsections (5) and (6).

(5) In the case of an animal treated with vaccine for the purpose of preventing the spread of foot-and-mouth disease—

(a) if the animal was affected with foot-and-mouth disease the compensation is the value of the animal immediately before it became so affected;

(b) in any other case the compensation is the value of the animal immediately before it was slaughtered.

(6) In the case of an animal treated with vaccine for the purpose of preventing the spread of a disease specified by order under subsection (1) the compensation is of such an amount as may be prescribed by order of the Secretary of State.

(7) In arriving at a value under subsection (5) above no account is to be taken of the fact that the animal had been treated with vaccine as mentioned in that subsection.”

(8) No order may be made under subsection (1) unless a draft of the order has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.

(9) A statutory instrument containing an order under subsection (6) is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F13 S. 16A inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 5; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

Infection E+W+S

17 Powers as to infected places and areas. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for prescribing the cases in which places and areas are to be declared to be infected with a disease and the authority, mode, and conditions by, in, and on which declarations in that behalf are to be made, and their effect and consequences, and their duration and discontinuance, and other connected matters.

(2) Every place or area so declared infected shall be an infected place or area for the purposes of this Act.

(3) A notice served in pursuance of directions of the Minister or of a local authority by virtue of an order made under this section shall be conclusive evidence to all intents of the existence or past existence or cessation of the disease, or of the error, and of any other matter on which the notice proceeds.

(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F14

Textual Amendments

F14 S. 17(4) repealed by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 4, Sch. 2

18 Other provisions as to infected places and areas. E+W+S

(1) Notwithstanding anything in this Act, where the Minister, on inquiry, and after communication with the local authority, is satisfied that a declaration of a place being an infected place has been made in error—

(a) respecting the existence or past existence of disease, or

(b) respecting the limits of a place, or

(c) respecting any other matter of fact on which the declaration proceeded,

the Minister may by order cancel the declaration as regards the infected place, or as regards any part of it, as he thinks fit.

(2) Where, in accordance with the provisions of this Act—

(a) a place or an area or a portion of an area is declared free from a disease, or

(b) a declaration of a place being an infected place is cancelled as regards the place or as regards any part of it,

then, from the time specified in that behalf by the Minister, or a local authority, as the case may be, the place, or area or that portion of the area or that part of the place, shall cease to be, or to be in, an infected place or area.

(3) An order of the Minister—

(a) declaring a place to be an infected place or area, or

(b) declaring a place or area, or a portion of an area, to be free from disease, or

(c) cancelling a declaration,

shall be conclusive evidence to all intents of the existence or past existence or cessation of the disease, or of the error, and of any other matter on which the order proceeds.

19 Destruction of foxes etc. on rabies infection. E+W+S

(1) An order under section 17 above prescribing the cases in which areas are to be declared to be infected with rabies may include provision for the destruction in an area declared to be so infected, by persons authorised in accordance with the order, of foxes and such other wild mammals as may be prescribed by the order (not in either case being animals held in captivity).

(2) An order made by virtue of subsection (1) above may provide for—

(a) authorising any person to enter any land (other than a dwellinghouse) for the purpose of carrying out, or of deciding whether to carry out, the destruction there of animals in accordance with the order;

(b) authorising the erection of fences or other obstacles to restrict the movement of animals into and out of an area where destruction is carried out;

(c) regulating the ownership and disposal of the carcases of animals destroyed in accordance with the order;

(d) prohibiting any person obstructing the destruction of animals in accordance with the order and from interfering with the carcases of animals destroyed;

(e) authorising the use of methods of destruction which would otherwise be unlawful.

(3) An order made by virtue of subsection (1) shall include provision as to the steps to be taken to inform the occupier of any land where it is proposed that animals should be destroyed, and other persons who may be there, of the proposal and of the methods of destruction to be used.

20 Additional provisions under s. 17 on rabies infection. E+W+S

(1) An order under section 17 above prescribing the cases in which areas are to be declared to be infected with rabies may include provision for—

(a) requiring notice to be given, in such circumstances as may be prescribed by the order, of the death in an area declared to be so infected of such domestic or wild mammals as may be prescribed;

(b) regulating the ownership and disposal of the carcases of animals whose deaths are required to be notified by virtue of paragraph (a) above;

(c) requiring and regulating the vaccination, confinement and control in such area of such domestic mammals and mammals held in captivity as may be prescribed by the order;

(d) authorising the seizure and detention and the disposal or destruction of any animal in respect of which any provision made by virtue of paragraph (c) above is not complied with;

(e) authorising any person to enter any land for the purpose of seizing or destroying any animal in pursuance of the order.

(2) An order under section 17 prescribing the cases in which areas are to be declared to be infected with rabies may provide—

(a) for the division of an area into zones (whether defined by reference to distance from the places within the area where diseased animals have been found or otherwise); and

(b) for the consequences which may follow a declaration to be different for different zones.

21 Destruction of wild life on infection other than rabies. E+W+S

(1) This section—

(a) applies to any disease other than rabies which is for the time being a disease for the purposes of section 1(a) above; and

(b) is without prejudice to any powers conferred by other provisions of this Act on the Minister, the appropriate Minister and the Ministers.

(2) The Minister, if satisfied in the case of any area—

(a) that there exists among the wild members of one or more species in the area a disease to which this section applies which has been or is being transmitted from members of that or those species to animals of any kind in the area, and

(b) that destruction of wild members of that or those species in that area is necessary in order to eliminate, or substantially reduce the incidence of, that disease in animals of any kind in the area,

may, subject to the following provisions of this section, by order provide for the destruction of wild members of that or those species in that area.

(3) Before making an order under this section the Minister shall consult with the Nature Conservancy Council [F15 for the area to which it will apply], and every order so made shall specify—

(a) the area to which it applies;

(b) the disease to which it applies; and

(c) the one or more species to which it relates.

(4) An order under this section providing for the destruction of wild members of one or more species in any area may provide for authorising the use for that purpose of one or more methods of destruction that would otherwise be unlawful.

The order shall not authorise such use unless the Minister is satisfied that use of the method or methods in question is the most appropriate way of carrying out that destruction, having regard to all relevant considerations and, in particular, the need to avoid causing unnecessary suffering to wild members of the species in question.

(5) An order under this section may include provision—

(a) for ensuring that destruction of wild members of any species to which the order relates is properly and effectively carried out, and in particular—

(i) for preventing persons from taking into captivity, harbouring, concealing or otherwise protecting wild members of any such species with intent to prevent their destruction, or

(ii) in any other way obstructing or interfering with anything which has been, is being or is to be done or used in connection with that destruction.

(b) for regulating the ownership and disposal of the carcases of members of any such species destroyed in the area to which the order relates.

(6) Before commencing the destruction of wild members of a species on any land within an area to which an order under this section applies the Minister shall take all reasonable steps to inform—

(a) the occupier of the land, and

(b) any other person who may be there,

of his intention to carry out that destruction and of the methods of destruction to be used.

It shall be the Minister’s duty to ensure that destruction is carried out on any such land in as safe a manner as is possible in all the circumstances.

(7) Where an order under this section is in force, the Minister shall have power to take such measures (including the erection of fences or other obstacles) as he considers appropriate—

(a) for preventing the movement of living creatures into or out of the area or any part of the area to which the order applies while destruction of wild members of any species to which the order relates is being carried out in the area; and

(b) where destruction of wild members of any such species has been or is to be carried out in any part of that area, for preventing the recolonisation of that part by members of that species for as long as he considers necessary to prevent reappearance among them of the disease to which the order applies.

(8) As soon as may be after the Minister is satisfied, in the case of any land, that any measures affecting that land which have been taken in connection with an order under this section are no longer necessary, he shall—

(a) remove from the land anything placed or erected on it; and

(b) take such other steps as are reasonably practicable to reinstate the land.

(9) In this section and section 22 below—

• “animals” includes horses,

• [F16 “Nature Conservancy Council” means [F17 English Nature], [F18 Scottish Natural Heritage] or the Countryside Council for Wales,]

• “species” means any species of bird or mammal, except man,

and references to wild members of any species in an area are references to members of the species in the area that are neither domesticated nor held in captivity.

(10) A statutory instrument containing an order under this section shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

Textual Amendments

F15 Words in s. 21(3) inserted (1.4.1991) by Environmental Protection Act 1990 (c. 43, SIF 46:4), s. 132(1)(a), Sch. 9 para. 10(2)(a); S.I. 1991/685, art. 3

F16 Definition in s. 21(9) inserted (1.4.1991) by Environmental Protection Act 1990 (c. 43, SIF 46:4), s. 132(1)(a), Sch. 9 para. 10(2)(b); S.I. 1991/685, art. 3

F17 S. 21(9): words in definition of 'Nature Conservancy Council' substituted (E.W.) (30.1.2001) by 2000 c. 37, ss. 73(4), 103(2), Sch. 8 para. 1(g)

F18 Words in s. 21(9) substituted (1.4.1992) by Natural Heritage (Scotland) Act 1991 (c. 28, SIF 46:1), s. 4, Sch. 2 para. 7(2); S.I. 1991/2633, art. 4

22 Powers of entry etc. for s. 21. E+W+S

(1) In relation to any disease to which section 21 above applies the following persons are authorised officers for the purposes of this section—

(a) an officer of the appropriate Minister,

(b) a veterinary inspector, and

(c) any person who, not being such an officer or inspector, is authorised by the appropriate Minister to exercise the powers conferred by this section,

and subsection (9) of section 21 applies to this section.

(2) Where an authorised officer has reasonable grounds for suspecting, in the case of any area, that there exists among the wild members of any species in the area a disease to which section 21 applies, he may enter any land in the area and—

(a) take samples of the wild members of that species, or of their excreta, or of any materials (whether or not forming part of the land) with which wild members of that species may have been in contact;

(b) carry out any other investigations which he considers necessary for the purpose of determining, as regards that species and that disease, whether an order under section 21 should be made in respect of the whole or part of the area in question.

(3) An authorised officer may at any time enter any land in the area to which an order under section 21 applies for any of the following purposes—

(a) to carry out the destruction of any wild members of a species to which the order relates that may be on that land;

(b) to take any such measures as are mentioned in subsection (7) of that section;

(c) to ascertain, as regards any wild members of a species to which the order relates, whether destruction has been effectively carried out.

(4) Where in pursuance of an order under section 21 destruction of wild members of any species to which the order relates has been carried out on any land in the area to which the order applies, then, for the purpose of ascertaining—

(a) whether the land has been or is being recolonised by wild members of that species, and, if so,

(b) whether there exists among them the disease to which the order applies (or, if the order has been revoked, to which it previously applied),

an authorised officer may enter the land and take such samples of or relating to that species as are mentioned in paragraph (a) of subsection (2) above; but the powers conferred by this subsection shall not be exercisable at any time more than 2 years after the revocation of the order in question.

(5) Nothing in this section authorises any person to enter a dwellinghouse.

(6) A person entering any land in the exercise of powers conferred on him by this section shall, if so required by the owner or occupier or person in charge of the land—

(a) produce to him some duly authenticated document showing his authority; and

(b) state in writing his reasons for entering.

(7) Without prejudice to subsection (6) above, an authorised officer—

(a) shall not demand admission as of right to any land forming part of a nature reserve (within the meaning of section 15 of the National Parks and Access to the M4 Countryside Act 1949) maintained or managed by [F19 a Nature Conservancy Council under section 132 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990][F20 or by Scottish Natural Heritage under section 4(7) of the Natural Heritage (Scotland) Act 1991]unless 7 days’ notice of the intended entry has been given to the Council; and

(b) in exercising any of his powers under subsection (2), (3) or (4) above on any such land shall, as far as possible, do so in accordance with such reasonable requirements for minimising damage to flora, fauna or geological or physiographical features within the reserve as may have been notified by the Council to the appropriate Minister.

(8) The preceding provisions of this section are without prejudice to any powers conferred on inspectors or others by or by virtue of any other provision of this Act.

Textual Amendments

F19 Words in s. 22(7)(a) substituted (1.4.1991) by Environmental Protection Act 1990 (c. 43, SIF 46:4), s. 132(1)(a), Sch. 9 para. 10(3); S.I. 1991/685, art. 3

F20 Words in s. 22(7)(a) inserted (1.4.1992) by Natural Heritage (Scotland) Act 1991 (SIF 130, c. 28), s. 4, Sch 21 para. 7(3); S.I. 1991/2633, art.4

Marginal Citations

M4 1949 c. 97.

23 Orders as to infected places and areas. E+W+S

The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for all or any of the following purposes—

(a) for prescribing and regulating the publication by placards, handbills, or otherwise, in the immediate neighbourhood of a place or area declared infected, of the fact of such declaration;

(b) for prohibiting or regulating the movement of animals and persons into, within, or out of an infected place or area;

(c) for prescribing and regulating the isolation or separation of animals being in an infected place or area;

(d) for prohibiting or regulating the removal of carcases, fodder, litter, utensils, pens, hurdles, dung, or other things into, within, or out of an infected place or area;

(e) for prescribing and regulating the destruction, burial, disposal, or treatment of carcases, fodder, litter, utensils, pens, hurdles, dung, or other things, being in or removed from an infected place or area;

(f) for prescribing and regulating the cleansing and disinfection of infected places and areas, or parts of them;

(g) for prescribing and regulating the disinfection of the clothes of persons being in an infected place, and the use of precautions against the spreading of disease by such persons.

24 Rabies: quarantine and virus control. E+W+S

The provision which may be made by orders under section 1 above shall (without prejudice to the generality of that provision) include provision—

(a) for requiring mammals which may be carriers of rabies to be kept in quarantine in such cases, for such periods and under such conditions as may be prescribed by the order;

(b) for prohibiting or regulating—

(i) the keeping and importation of rabies virus in any form; and

(ii) the deliberate introduction of the virus into animals.

25 Movement of diseased or suspected animals. E+W+S

The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for all or any of the following purposes—

(a) for prohibiting or regulating the exposure of diseased or suspected animals in markets or fairs or sale-yards, or other public or private places, where animals are commonly exposed for sale, and their placing in lairs or other places adjacent to or connected with markets or fairs, or where animals are commonly placed before exposure for sale;

(b) for prohibiting or regulating the sending or carrying of diseased or suspected animals, or of dung or other thing likely to spread disease, or causing them to be sent or carried, on railways, canals, rivers, or inland navigations, or in coasting vessels, or in an aircraft engaged in a flight or a part of a flight beginning and ending in Great Britain, or otherwise;

(c) for prohibiting or regulating the carrying, leading, or driving of diseased or suspected animals, or causing them to be carried, led or driven, on highways or thoroughfares, or elsewhere;

(d) for prohibiting or regulating the placing or keeping of diseased or suspected animals on commons or unenclosed lands, or in fields or other places insufficiently fenced, or on the sides of highways.

26 Pleuro-pneumonia or foot-and-mouth disease found in transit. E+W+S

(1) The Minister shall by orders make such provision as he thinks necessary or expedient respecting the case of animals found to be affected with pleuro-pneumonia or foot-and-mouth disease—

(a) while exposed for sale or exhibited in a market, fair, sale-yard, place of exhibition, or other place; or

(b) while placed in a lair or other place before exposure for sale; or

(c) while in transit or in course of being moved by land, water or air; or

(d) while being in a slaughter-house or place where animals are slaughtered or are kept with a view to slaughter; or

(e) while being on common or unenclosed land; or

(f) generally, while being in a place not in the possession or occupation or under the control of the owner of the animals.

(2) The Minister shall by orders under this section make such provision as he thinks fit for the consequences under this Act of animals being so found in the circumstances mentioned above—

(a) as well with regard to the animals as with regard to the places where they are when so found, and other places; and

(b) with regard to animals being or having been in the same shed or stable, herd or flock as, or in contact with, animals so found.

(3) The Minister may, by orders under this section relating to particular places, make such provision as he thinks fit for the consequences mentioned above.

(4) Every order under this section shall have full effect not withstanding—

(a) any provision of this Act requiring the declaration of a place infected with pleuro-pneumonia or foot-and-mouth disease, or relating to any consequence of such a declaration, or to any matter connected with such a declaration; and

(b) any other provision whatsoever of this Act.

27 Exclusion of strangers. E+W+S

(1) A person owning or having charge of any animals in a place or area declared infected with any disease may affix, at or near the entrance to a building or enclosure in which the animals are, a notice forbidding persons to enter the building or enclosure without the permission mentioned in the notice.

(2) Thereupon it shall not be lawful for any person, not having by law a right of entry or way into, on, or over that building or enclosure, to enter or go into, on, or over the building or enclosure without that permission.

28 Seizure of diseased or suspected animals. E+W+S

The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit—

(a) for prescribing and regulating the seizure, detention and disposal of a diseased or suspected animal exposed, carried, kept or otherwise dealt with in contravention of an order of the Minister; and

(b) for prescribing and regulating the liability of the owner or consignor or consignee of such animal to the expenses connected with its seizure, detention and disposal.

[F21 28A Deliberate infection E+W

(1) A person commits an offence if without lawful authority or excuse (proof of which shall lie on him) he knowingly does anything which causes or is intended to cause an animal to be infected with a disease specified in Schedule 2A.

(2) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (1) is liable—

(a) on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum or to both;

(b) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or to a fine or to both.

(3) The Secretary of State may by order amend Schedule 2A.

(4) A statutory instrument containing an order under subsection (3) is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F21 Ss. 28A, 28B inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 12(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F22 28B Deliberate infection: disqualification E+W

(1) If a person is convicted of an offence under section 28A the court may by order disqualify him, for such period as it thinks fit, from keeping or dealing in—

(a) any animals, or

(b) any animals of a specified kind.

(2) The court may suspend the operation of the order—

(a) for such period as it thinks necessary to enable arrangements to be made for the keeping of any animals to which the disqualification relates;

(b) pending an appeal.

(3) A person who is disqualified under subsection (1) may from time to time apply to the court which imposed the disqualification to remove it or vary it.

(4) On an application under subsection (3) the court may by order—

(a) refuse the application,

(b) remove the disqualification, or

(c) vary the disqualification to apply it only to such animals or kind of animals as it specifies.

(5) In considering an application under subsection (3) the court may have regard to—

(a) the nature of the offence in respect of which the disqualification was imposed;

(b) the character of the applicant;

(c) his conduct since the disqualification was imposed.

(6) The first application under subsection (3) must not be made before the end of the period of one year starting with the date the disqualification starts.

(7) A further application must not be made before the end of the period of one year starting with the date of the court’s last order.

(8) For the purposes of this section keeping or dealing in an animal includes—

(a) having custody or control of an animal;

(b) being concerned in the management or control of a body (whether or not incorporated) whose activities include keeping or dealing in animals.

Textual Amendments

F22 Ss. 28A, 28B inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 12(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

Risk to human health E+W+S

29 Control of zoonoses. E+W+S

(1) This section shall have effect with a view to reducing the risk to human health from any disease of, or organism carried in, animals; and the Ministers may by order designate any such disease or organism which in their opinion constitutes such a risk as is mentioned in this subsection.

In this section “disease” is not restricted by its definition in this Act.

(2) Where any disease or organism is for the time being designated under this section, the Ministers may by order—

(a) provide for any provision of this Act which has effect in relation to the disease to have that effect in relation to the disease so designated subject to such modifications as may be specified in the order;

(b) apply any provision of this Act, subject to any modifications so specified, in relation to the presence of the organism in an animal as if the presence of the organism were a disease to which this Act applied.

(3) The Ministers may by order make provision for requiring a person who, in such circumstances as are specified by the order, knows or has reason to suspect that an animal of such description as is specified in the order is or was—

(a) affected with a disease designated under this section, or

(b) a carrier of an organism so designated,

to furnish to such person and in such form and within such period as are specified in the order such information relating to the animal as is so specified.

30 Provisions supplemental to s. 29. E+W+S

(1) If it appears to the appropriate Minister that a person may have information relating to—

(a) an animal affected with a disease designated under section 29 above, or

(b) an animal which is a carrier of an organism so designated,

that Minister may by notice in writing require him to furnish to such person and in such form and within such period as are specified in the notice such information relating to the animal as he possesses and is so specified.

In this section “disease” is not restricted by its definition in this Act.

(2) Where a veterinary inspector has reason to believe that an animal such as is mentioned in subsection (1) above is or has been on any land he may, on producing if so required evidence of his authority—

(a) enter the land and make such tests and take such samples of any animal, feeding stuff, litter, dung, vessel, pen, vehicle or other thing whatsoever which is on or forms part of the land as he thinks appropriate for the purpose of ascertaining whether such an animal is or has been on the land; and

(b) require the owner or person having charge of any animals on the land to take such reasonable steps as the inspector may specify for the purpose of collecting or restraining them so as to facilitate the exercise in relation to them of the powers conferred on the inspector by paragraph (a) above.

(3) A person is guilty of an offence against this Act who—

(a) fails to comply with a requirement imposed on him by virtue of section 29 and this section; or

(b) in purported compliance with a requirement to furnish information which is imposed on him by virtue of section 29 and this section, knowingly or recklessly furnishes information which is false in a material particular.

Slaughter E+W+S

31 Slaughter in certain diseases. E+W+S

Schedule 3 to this Act has effect as to the slaughter of animals in relation to—

(a) cattle plague;

(b) pleuro-pneumonia;

(c) foot-and-mouth disease;

(d) swine-fever; and

(e) diseases of poultry.

32 Slaughter in other diseases. E+W+S

(1) The Minister may, if he thinks fit, cause to be slaughtered any animal which—

(a) is affected or suspected of being affected with any disease to which this section applies; or

(b) has been exposed to the infection of any such disease.

(2) This section applies to such diseases of animals as may from time to time be directed by order of the Ministers.

(3) The Minister shall pay for animals slaughtered under this section compensation of such amount as may be determined in accordance with scales prescribed by order of the Minister made with the Treasury’s approval.

A statutory instrument containing an order under this subsection shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(4) This section does not apply to poultry; and in this section—

(a) “animals” includes horses;

(b) “disease” is not restricted by its definition in this Act.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 S. 32 applied (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3159, art. 2(1) (as amended (S.) (28.6.2014) by The Specified Diseases (Notification and Slaughter) (Amendment) and Compensation (Scotland) Order 2014 (S.S.I. 2014/151), arts. 1(1), 2

S. 32 applied (24.1.1997) by S.I. 1996/3183, art. 10(1)

S. 32 applied (1.4.1997) by S.I. 1997/757, art. 11

S. 32 applied (1.4.1997) by S.I. 1997/758, art. 18

S. 32 applied (E.) (1.9.2000) by S.I. 2000/2055, art. 18

S. 32 applied (E.) (1.9.2000) by S.I. 2000/2056, art. 11

C7 S. 32 applied (W.) (19.2.2003) by Bluetongue (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/326), arts. 1(1), 13 (with art. 4)

C8 S. 32 applied (S.) (19.2.2003) by Bluetongue (Scotland) Order 2003 (S.S.I. 2003/91), arts. 1(1), 13

C9 S. 32 applied (E.) (19.2.2003) by Bluetongue Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/130), arts. 1(1), 13

C10 S. 32 applied (S.) (28.11.2003) by African Swine Fever (Scotland) Order 2003 (S.S.I. 2003/586), arts. 1(1), 2(3)

C11 S. 32 applied (S.) (23.9.2005) by Tuberculosis (Scotland) Order 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/434), arts. 1(1), 4

[F23 32A Slaughter to prevent spread of disease E+W

(1) The Secretary of State may by order amend Schedule 3 for the purpose of—

(a) authorising or requiring the slaughter of animals to be caused with a view to preventing the spread of disease other than foot-and-mouth disease;

(b) requiring the payment of compensation in respect of animals slaughtered by virtue of the order.

(2) An order under this section may include—

(a) amendments corresponding to those made by section 1 of the Animal Health Act 2002;

(b) amendments as to slaughter in relation to any disease not referred to in Schedule 3 (apart from the order);

(c) supplementary or incidental provisions (including amendments of provisions other than Schedule 3).

(3) No order may be made under this section unless a draft of the order has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.]

Textual Amendments

F23 S. 32A inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 2(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

[F24 32B Disease control (slaughter) protocol E+W

(1) This section applies to a power exercisable by the Secretary of State under—

(a) paragraph 3(1)(c) of Schedule 3;

(b) such other provision of that Schedule (as amended by an order under section 32A(1)(a)) as the Secretary of State by order specifies;

(c) such other provisions of this Act relating to the control of disease as the Secretary of State by order specifies.

(2) The Secretary of State must prepare a document (the disease control (slaughter) protocol) indicating—

(a) the purposes for which any power to which this section applies will be exercised;

(b) the principal factors to be taken into account in deciding whether to exercise the power;

(c) the procedure to be followed in deciding whether in any circumstances or description of circumstances the power is to be exercised, which shall include the application of such methods of detecting disease in animals as may be available;

(d) the procedure to be followed by persons who have functions in relation to the exercise of the power;

(e) the means by which a particular decision to exercise the power may be reviewed.

(3) After preparing a draft of the disease control (slaughter) protocol the Secretary of State—

(a) must send a copy of the draft to such persons and organisations as he thinks are representative of those having an interest in the exercise of the power;

(b) must consider any representations made to him about the draft by such persons and organisations;

(c) may amend the draft accordingly.

(4) After the Secretary of State has proceeded under subsection (3) he must publish the protocol in such manner as he thinks appropriate.

(5) The Secretary of State must from time to time review the protocol and if he thinks it appropriate revise the protocol.

(6) Subsections (2) to (4) apply to a revision of the protocol as they apply to its preparation.

(7) The power to make an order must be exercised by statutory instrument subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(8) It is immaterial that anything done for the purposes of subsections (2) to (4) is done before the passing of the Animal Health Act 2002.]

Textual Amendments

F24 Ss. 32B, 32C inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 3; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C12 S. 32B applied (28.8.2003) by Avian Influenza and Nescastle Disease (Biosecurity Guidance and Disease Control Slaughter Protocol) (England and Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2035), arts. 1, 3

F25 32C Protocol: exercise of powers E+W

(1) A power to which section 32B applies must not be exercised unless the protocol mentioned in that section has been published and has not been withdrawn.

(2) Any act which is done in contravention of subsection (1) is done without lawful authority.

(3) If a person who has any function in relation to the exercise of a power to which section 32B applies fails to act in accordance with the protocol he is not by reason only of that failure liable in any civil or criminal proceedings.

(4) But the protocol is admissible in evidence in such proceedings and a court may take account of any failure to act in accordance with it in deciding any question in the proceedings.

Textual Amendments

F25 Ss. 32B, 32C inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 3; S.I. 2002/3044, art.2

[F26 32D Explanation of preventive slaughter E+W

(1) This section applies to a power exercisable by the Secretary of State under—

(a) paragraph 3(1)(c) of Schedule 3;

(b) any other provision of that Schedule as amended by an order under section 32A(1)(a).

(2) The Secretary of State must not exercise a power to which this section applies unless before he first exercises the power in relation to any description of circumstances he publishes his reasons in relation to the circumstances of that description—

(a) for the exercise of the power;

(b) for not exercising his power under section 16 to cause animals to be treated with serum or vaccine.

(3) If the Secretary of State does not comply with subsection (2) in relation to any description of circumstances anything done in connection with the exercise of the power in such circumstances must be taken to have been done without lawful authority.]

Textual Amendments

F26 S. 32D inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 4; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

33 Additional staff and expenses. E+W+S

The Minister may, for the purposes of his powers under this Act relating to the slaughter by him of animals, employ such additional inspectors, valuers and other persons, and at such remuneration, and may incur such expenses, as, subject to the approval of [F27 the Treasury], he thinks necessary.

Textual Amendments

F27 Words substituted by virtue of S.I. 1981/1670, arts. 2(1)(a)(2), 3(5)

34 Slaughter and compensation generally. E+W+S

(1) The Minister may, notwithstanding anything in this Act, reserve for observation and treatment an animal liable to be slaughtered under this Act at his direction but subject to payment of compensation by him as in case of actual slaughter.

(2) Where an animal has been slaughtered under this Act at the Minister’s direction, the carcase of the animal shall belong to the Minister and shall be buried, or sold, or otherwise disposed of by him, or as he directs, as the condition of the animal or carcase and other circumstances may require or admit.

(3) If, in any case, the sum received by the Minister on sale of a carcase under this section exceeds the amount paid for compensation to the owner of the animal slaughtered, he shall pay that excess to the owner, after deducting reasonable expenses.

(4) Where an animal has been slaughtered under this Act at the Minister’s direction, he may use for the burial of the carcase any ground in the possession or occupation of the owner of the animal and suitable in that behalf, or any common or unenclosed land.

(5) If the owner of an animal slaughtered under this Act at the Minister’s direction has an insurance on the animal, the amount of the compensation awarded to him under this Act may be deducted by the insurers from the amount of the money payable under the insurance before they make any payment in respect of it.

(6) Notwithstanding anything in this Act, the Minister may, if he thinks fit, withhold, either wholly or partially, compensation or other payment in respect of an animal slaughtered under this Act at his discretion, where the animal, being an imported animal, was in his judgment diseased at the time of its landing or, before or while being brought from a member State, exposed to the infection of disease.

(7) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for all or any of the following purposes—

(a) for prescribing the mode of ascertainment of the value of an animal slaughtered, or liable to be slaughtered, at their direction;

(b) for regulating applications for, and the mode of payment of, compensation;

(c) for prescribing and regulating the destruction, burial, disposal or treatment of carcases of animals slaughtered at their direction,

and they may by order provide that subsection (6) above shall cease to have effect.

Carcases etc. liable to spread disease E+W+S

35 Seizure and disposal of carcases etc. E+W

(1) The Ministers may by order make such provision—

[F28 (a) for the seizure of anything, whether animate or inanimate, by or by means of which it appears to them that any disease to which this subsection applies might be carried or transmitted, and]

(b) for the destruction, burial, disposal or treatment of anything seized under the order,

as they may think expedient for preventing the spread of any [F29 such disease].

[F30 (1A) Subsection (1) above does not authorise provision for the seizure of any animal; but such an order may provide for the seizure of carcases and of anything obtained from or produced by an animal.

In this subsection, “animal” includes anything that may, by virtue of an order under section 87 below, be included for any of the purposes of this Act in the definition of animals or of poultry contained in that section, and “carcases” is to be construed accordingly.]

(2) Subsection (1) above applies to the diseases in the case of which powers of slaughter are exercisable under this Act, that is to say—

(a) to cattle plague, pleuro-pneumonia, foot-and-mouth disease [F31 , swine-fever and transmissible spongiform encephalopathies], and any disease within the meaning of section 32 above to which that section for the time being applies [F32 and any disease in respect of which an order under section 32A is in force]; and

(b) to any disease as defined in relation to poultry by or under section 88 below.

(3) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit—

(a) for prescribing and regulating the destruction, burial, disposal or treatment of carcases of animals dying while diseased or suspected;

(b) for prescribing and regulating the destruction, burial or disposal of anything seized under subsection (1);

(c) for prohibiting or regulating the digging up of carcases which have been buried.

(4) A person is guilty of an offence against this Act who, without lawful authority or excuse, proof of which shall lie on him—

(a) throws or places, or causes or suffers to be thrown or placed, into any river, stream, canal, navigation, or other water, or into the sea within 4.8 kilometres of the shore, the carcase of an animal which has died of disease, or been slaughtered as diseased or suspected; or

(b) digs up, or causes to be dug up, a carcase buried under the direction of the Minister or of a local authority or of a receiver of wreck.

Extent Information

E2 This version of this provision extends to England and Wales only; a separate version has been created for Scotland only

Textual Amendments

F28 S. 35(1)(a) substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(1)(a)

F29 Words substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(1)(b)

F30 S. 35(1A) inserted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(2)

F31 Words in s. 35(2)(a) substituted (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 2(2)(a); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F32 Words in s. 35(2)(a) inserted (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 2(2)(b); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

35 Seizure and disposal of carcases etc. S

(1) The Ministers may by order make such provision—

[F75 (a) for the seizure of anything, whether animate or inanimate, by or by means of which it appears to them that any disease to which this subsection applies might be carried or transmitted, and]

(b) for the destruction, burial, disposal or treatment of anything seized under the order,

as they may think expedient for preventing the spread of any [F76 such disease].

[F77 (1A) Subsection (1) above does not authorise provision for the seizure of any animal; but such an order may provide for the seizure of carcases and of anything obtained from or produced by an animal.

In this subsection, “animal” includes anything that may, by virtue of an order under section 87 below, be included for any of the purposes of this Act in the definition of animals or of poultry contained in that section, and “carcases” is to be construed accordingly.]

(2) Subsection (1) above applies to the diseases in the case of which powers of slaughter are exercisable under this Act, that is to say—

(a) to cattle plague, pleuro-pneumonia, foot-and-mouth disease and swine-fever, and any disease within the meaning of section 32 above to which that section for the time being applies ; and

(b) to any disease as defined in relation to poultry by or under section 88 below.

(3) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit—

(a) for prescribing and regulating the destruction, burial, disposal or treatment of carcases of animals dying while diseased or suspected;

(b) for prescribing and regulating the destruction, burial or disposal of anything seized under subsection (1);

(c) for prohibiting or regulating the digging up of carcases which have been buried.

(4) A person is guilty of an offence against this Act who, without lawful authority or excuse, proof of which shall lie on him—

(a) throws or places, or causes or suffers to be thrown or placed, into any river, stream, canal, navigation, or other water, or into the sea within 4.8 kilometres of the shore, the carcase of an animal which has died of disease, or been slaughtered as diseased or suspected; or

(b) digs up, or causes to be dug up, a carcase buried under the direction of the Minister or of a local authority or of a receiver of wreck.

Extent Information

E6 This version of this provision extends to Scotland only; a separate version has been created for England and Wales only

Textual Amendments

F75 S. 35(1)(a) substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(1)(a)

F76 Words substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(1)(b)

F77 S. 35(1A) inserted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(2)

36 Compensation for seizure. E+W+S

(1) The Minister shall pay compensation—

(a) for anything seized under an order made by virtue of section 35(1) above for the purpose of preventing the spread of foot-and-mouth disease;

(b) for anything seized under such an order for the purpose of preventing the spread of any other disease to which section 35(1) applies, except the carcase of [F33 or anything obtained from or produced by] any animal or bird affected with that disease.

(2) The Ministers may by order provide for the payment by the Minister of compensation for carcases [F34 of, or things obtained from or produced by] animals or birds affected with any disease to which section 35(1) applies other than foot-and-mouth disease or fowl pest [F35 being carcases or things seized under an order made by virtue of section 35(1) above].

(3) The compensation payable under subsection (1) or subsection (2) above for anything seized shall be its value at the time of seizure.

(4) Where anything destroyed, buried or disposed of under an order made under paragraph (e) of section 23 above could have been seized under an order made under section 35(1), the Minister shall pay the like compensation (if any) for it as if it had been so seized at the time of the destruction, burial or disposal.

(5) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for all or any of the following purposes—

(a) for prescribing how the value of anything seized under section 35(1) is to be ascertained;

(b) for regulating applications for, and the mode of payment of, any compensation payable by virtue of this section;

(c) for prescribing and regulating the destruction, burial or disposal of anything seized under section 35(1).

Textual Amendments

F33 Words inserted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(3)(a)

F34 Words substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(3)(b)

F35 Words inserted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 1(3)(b)

[F36 Part 2A E+W Scrapie

Textual Amendments

F36 Pt. 2A (ss. 36A-36M) inserted (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 6, Sch.; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

Sheep genotypes E+W

36A Power of Secretary of State to specify sheep genotypes E+W

The Secretary of State may by order specify sheep genotypes which, in his opinion, are more susceptible than other sheep genotypes—

(a) to infection by transmissible spongiform encephalopathies generally, or by a particular form of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy, or

(b) to becoming carriers.

Genetically susceptible sheep E+W

36B Identification of genetically susceptible sheep E+W

(1) The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision requiring the keeper of any sheep—

(a) to allow an inspector to take a sample from it, for the purpose of establishing its genotype;

(b) to allow an inspector to administer or otherwise attach to it an electronic identification device;

(c) where the genotype of the sheep has been established (whether or not as a result of the exercise of powers conferred by this Part) to keep a record of its genotype.

(2) The regulations may, in particular—

(a) provide that only electronic identification devices of a prescribed kind may be administered or attached;

(b) make provision as to the assistance which an inspector may require the keeper to give to him;

(c) make provision with respect to the testing of samples;

(d) require the issuing and keeping of certificates recording the genotypes of sheep.

36C Restrictions on breeding from genetically susceptible sheep E+W

(1) This section applies where it appears to the Secretary of State that a sheep is of a genotype specified in an order under section 36A.

(2) The Secretary of State must consider whether there are exceptional circumstances that justify allowing the sheep to be used for breeding.

(3) If it appears to the Secretary of State that allowing the sheep to be used for breeding would not be justified, he must give notice to its keeper (“a restriction notice”) that the restrictions and requirements imposed by subsections (7) to (9) apply in relation to the sheep.

(4) A restriction notice—

(a) may be made so as to apply to more than one sheep, and

(b) may describe the sheep to which it applies in such a way as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

(5) If the keeper of a sheep is not the same person as its owner, the Secretary of State may give a separate restriction notice to the owner.

(6) Subsections (7) to (9) apply to a person to whom a restriction notice is given.

(7) He must not—

(a) use a sheep to which the notice applies, or its semen, eggs or embryos, for purposes of or connected with breeding, or

(b) cause or permit such a sheep or such semen, eggs or embryos to be used by another person for those purposes.

(8) He must arrange for any semen, egg or embryo which has at any time been taken from a sheep to which the notice applies, and which is in his possession or under his control, to be destroyed.

(9) He must arrange for each sheep to which the notice applies—

(a) to be castrated or (as appropriate) sterilised before the end of the period of one month beginning with the date on which the notice was given, or

(b) to be slaughtered before the end of the period of seven months beginning with that date.

(10) For the purposes of subsection (2) exceptional circumstances include circumstances in which the imposition in relation to the sheep of the restrictions and requirements of subsections (7) to (9) is likely to cause the extinction of the breed of which the sheep is a member.

36D Appeals E+W

(1) A person to whom a restriction notice has been given may appeal against the notice to a person appointed by the Secretary of State for the purpose of dealing with appeals under this Part (“an assessor”).

(2) An appeal may not be brought after the end of the period of 21 days beginning with the date on which the notice concerned was given to the appellant.

(3) But the Secretary of State may, in a particular case, extend the period of 21 days if he considers that there are exceptional circumstances justifying the extension.

(4) If the restriction notice applies to more than one sheep, the appeal may be limited to the sheep specified by the appellant.

(5) If the assessor allows the appeal, in whole or in part, he may—

(a) revoke the notice,

(b) revoke the notice so far as it applies to one or more sheep specified by him, or

(c) direct that a further test is carried out in relation to sheep specified by him.

(6) A direction under subsection (5)(c) may require—

(a) a further sample to be taken,

(b) the further test to be carried out by a different testing laboratory.

(7) The Secretary of State may make regulations supplementing the provisions of this section.

(8) The regulations may, in particular, make provision—

(a) as to the procedure to be followed on an appeal,

(b) extending the period mentioned in section 36C(9)(a) where an appeal is brought against a restriction notice,

(c) requiring the appellant to meet the reasonable costs of, and in connection with, the taking of a further sample or the carrying out of a further test as a result of a direction under subsection (5)(c), and

(d) as to the recovery of any such costs.

(9) The revocation of a restriction notice (in whole or in part) by an assessor does not prevent the issue of another restriction notice, following the testing of a further sample.

Enforcement E+W

36E Secretary of State’s powers of enforcement E+W

(1) This section applies if the Secretary of State is satisfied that a person to whom a restriction notice has been given has failed to comply with one or more of the restrictions or requirements imposed on him by section 36C.

(2) But it does not apply in relation to any sheep—

(a) which is the subject of an appeal under section 36D which has not been disposed of, or

(b) which, as the result of a successful appeal, is no longer subject to the restriction notice.

(3) The Secretary of State may take such reasonable steps as he considers appropriate to secure that the failure is remedied.

(4) In particular, the Secretary of State may cause to be castrated (or as appropriate sterilised) or slaughtered any sheep—

(a) which is the subject of the notice, but

(b) which has neither been castrated (or as appropriate sterilised) nor slaughtered within the period mentioned in section 36C(9)(b).

(5) The Secretary of State may make regulations supplementing the provisions of this section.

36F Offences E+W

(1) A person to whom a restriction notice is given commits an offence (whether or not the notice is the subject of an appeal) if—

(a) he sells (or otherwise transfers to another person) a sheep to which the notice applies, or any of its semen, eggs or embryos;

(b) he fails, without reasonable excuse (proof of which lies on him) to comply with any of the restrictions or requirements imposed by subsections (7) to (9) of section 36C.

(2) Any other person commits an offence if he uses any semen, egg or embryo which he knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, has been taken from a sheep which is the subject of a restriction notice.

(3) A person commits an offence if, without reasonable excuse (proof of which lies on him), he fails to comply with any provision of regulations made under section 36B.

(4) A person commits an offence if he obstructs an inspector or any other person discharging, or attempting to discharge, functions conferred by or under this Part.

Power of entry E+W

36G Power of entry E+W

(1) An inspector or a constable may at all reasonable times enter any premises for the purpose of—

(a) carrying out any function he has under or in pursuance of this Part, or

(b) ascertaining whether any such function should be exercised.

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply to premises used only as a private dwelling-house unless 24 hours’ notice of the intended entry is given to the occupier.

(3) A person acting under subsection (1) must, if required, show evidence of his authority to act under that subsection.

36H Warrants E+W

(1) If a justice of the peace is satisfied on sworn information in writing that the first condition is satisfied and that the second or third condition is satisfied he may issue a warrant authorising a person mentioned in section 36G(1) to enter premises, if necessary using reasonable force, for the purpose there mentioned.

(2) The information must include—

(a) a statement as to whether any representations have been made by the occupier of the land or premises to an inspector concerning the purpose for which the warrant is sought;

(b) a summary of any such representations.

(3) The first condition is that there are reasonable grounds for a person mentioned in section 36G(1) to enter premises for the purpose there mentioned.

(4) The second condition is that each of the following applies to the occupier of the premises—

(a) he has been informed of the decision to seek entry to the premises and of the reasons for that decision;

(b) he has failed to allow entry to the premises on being requested to do so by a person mentioned in section 36G(1);

(c) he has been informed of the decision to apply for the warrant.

(5) The third condition is that—

(a) the premises are unoccupied or the occupier is absent and (in either case) notice of intention to apply for the warrant has been left in a conspicuous place on the premises, or

(b) an application for admission to the premises or the giving of notice of intention to apply for the warrant would defeat the object of entering the premises.

(6) A warrant issued under this section remains in force for one month starting with the date of its approval by the justice of the peace, which date shall be clearly visible on the warrant.

(7) A warrant issued under this section must be executed only at a reasonable hour unless the person authorised by the warrant to enter the premises thinks that the case is one of urgency.

(8) In relation to any premises to which entry is obtained by virtue of a warrant under this section the Secretary of State must retain for a period of not less than 12 months beginning with the day after entry—

(a) a copy of the warrant;

(b) a copy of any record of the steps taken to effect entry to the premises and the actions taken on the premises by the person authorised by the warrant to enter the premises and any other person entering the premises with him.

36I Supplementary E+W

(1) This section applies to a person who enters premises by virtue of section 36G(1) or under a warrant issued under section 36H (an authorised person).

(2) An authorised person may take with him—

(a) such other persons as he thinks necessary to give him such assistance as he thinks necessary;

(b) such equipment as he thinks necessary.

(3) An authorised person may require any person on the premises who falls within subsection (4) to give him such assistance as he may reasonably require for the purpose mentioned in section 36G(1).

(4) The following persons fall within this subsection—

(a) the occupier of the premises;

(b) a person appearing to the inspector to have charge of animals on the premises;

(c) a person appearing to the inspector to be under the direction or control of a person mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b).

(5) An authorised person may—

(a) inspect any records (in whatever form they are held) relating to the keeping, acquisition or disposal of animals;

(b) seize and detain any records which he reasonably thinks may be needed as evidence in any proceedings under or by virtue of this Act.

(6) If an authorised person enters any unoccupied premises he must leave them as effectively secured against entry as he found them.

(7) If an authorised person enters any premises by virtue of a warrant issued under section 36H he must at the time of entry—

(a) serve a copy of the warrant on the occupier of the premises, or (if the occupier is not on the premises)

(b) leave a copy of the warrant in a conspicuous place on the premises.

36J Offences E+W

(1) A person commits an offence if without lawful authority or excuse (proof of which shall lie on him) he—

(a) refuses admission to any premises to a person acting under section 36G above,

(b) obstructs or impedes him in so acting, or

(c) assists in any such obstruction or impeding.

(2) A person commits an offence if—

(a) he is required to give assistance under section 36I(3), and

(b) he fails to give it.

General E+W

36K Compensation E+W

The Secretary of State may make regulations providing for the payment by him of compensation in respect of loss suffered or costs incurred as a result of the exercise of a power conferred by or under this Part.

36L Orders and Regulations E+W

(1) A power to make an order or regulations under this Part is exercisable by statutory instrument.

(2) Such a statutory instrument is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

36M Interpretation E+W

In this Part—

• “keeper”, in relation to a sheep, includes an owner of the sheep;

• “premises” includes any land, building or other place;

• “restriction notice” means a notice given under section 36C.]

Part III E+W+S Welfare and Export

Care E+W+S

37 Prevention of suffering. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for the purpose of protecting animals from unnecessary suffering—

(a) during inland transit, including transit by an aircraft on a flight beginning and ending in Great Britain; or

(b) while exposed for sale; or

(c) while awaiting removal after being exposed for sale.

(2) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit—

(a) for ensuring for animals carried by sea or by air proper ventilation during the passage and on landing; and

(b) for protecting them from unnecessary suffering during the passage and on landing.

38 Food and water. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for ensuring for animals a proper supply of food and water—

(a) for any period in which the animals are detained; and

(b) during their passage by sea or by air and on landing.

(2) The following bodies—

(a) The Boards established by the M5 Transport Act 1962,

(b) [F37 the London Transport Executive][F38 Transport for London], and

(c) every railway company,

shall to the satisfaction of the appropriate Minister provide food and water, or either of them, at such railway stations as the appropriate Minister by general or specific description directs, for animals carried, or about to be or having been carried, on the railway of any of those bodies, and the additional provisions of Schedule 4 to this Act have effect accordingly.

In this subsection and in Schedule 4—

(i) references to the bodies mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) include [F39 in the case of those mentioned in paragraph (a)] wholly-owned subsidiaries of those bodies [F40 and in the case of Transport for London, any of its subsidiaries (within the meaning of the Greater London Authority Act 1999)];

(ii) “railway company” includes a person working a railway under lease or otherwise.

Textual Amendments

F37 Words appearing second substituted (E.W.) for words appearing first by London Regional Transport Act 1984 (c. 32, SIF 126), s. 71(3)(a), Sch. 6 para. 23(a)

F38 Words in s. 38(2)(b) substituted (15.7.2003) by The Transport for London (Consequential Provisions) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1615), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 9(a)

F39 Words inserted (E.W.) as provided by London Regional Transport Act 1984 (c. 32, SIF 126), s. 71(3)(a), Sch. 6 para. 23(b)

F40 Words in s. 38(2)(i) substituted (15.7.2003) by The Transport for London (Consequential Provisions) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1615), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 9(b)

Marginal Citations

M5 1962 c. 46.

Export E+W+S

39 Export of animals generally. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may by order provide in the interests of animal welfare for regulating the exportation from Great Britain of animals, and in particular—

(a) for prohibiting exportation without such certificate or licence as may be prescribed by the order; and

(b) as to the circumstances in which and conditions on which a certificate or licence may be obtained.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1) above, an order under this section may include provision for requiring persons proposing to export animals from Great Britain to furnish information about—

(a) the intended ultimate destination of the animals;

(b) the arrangements for conveying them to that destination; and

(c) any other matters which may be specified in the order.

Export of horses other than those defined as ponies E+W+S

40 Restriction on export of horses. E+W+S

(1) It is an offence against this Act to ship or attempt to ship any horse (which for the purpose of this section does not include a horse defined by this Act to be a pony) in any vessel or aircraft from any port or aerodrome in Great Britain to any port or aerodrome outside the British Islands unless the horse—

(a) immediately before shipment has been examined by a veterinary inspector appointed by the Minister for the purpose of conducting examinations under this section, and

(b) has been certified in writing by the inspector to comply with the conditions mentioned in subsection (2) below,

but this subsection shall not apply in such cases as may be prescribed by order of the Ministers.

A statutory instrument containing an order under this subsection shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(2) The conditions referred to in subsection (1) above are that the horse—

(a) is capable of being conveyed to the port or aerodrome outside the British Islands and disembarked without cruelty; and

(b) is capable of being worked without suffering.

(3) Where the inspector is satisfied that the horse is of one of the categories set out in the first column of the following table the conditions to be complied with shall include the condition that in the inspector’s opinion the horse—

(a) is not more than 8 years of age; and

(b) is of not less value than the amount specified in respect of it in the second column of that table, or such other amount as may be prescribed by order of the Ministers.

TABLE

		£
	A heavy draft horse	715
	A vanner, mule or jennet	495
	An ass	220

(4) Subsection (3) above shall not apply in the case of any horse where the inspector is satisfied—

(a) that it is intended to use the horse as a performing animal; or

(b) that the horse is registered in the stud book of a society for the encouragement of horse-breeding recognised by the Ministers, and is intended to be used for breeding or exhibition; or

(c) that the horse is a foal at foot accompanying such a horse as is referred to in paragraph (b) above.

Export of horses defined as ponies E+W+S

41 Restriction on export of ponies. E+W+S

(1) It is an offence against this Act to ship or attempt to ship any pony in any vessel or aircraft from any port or aerodrome in Great Britain to any port or aerodrome outside the British Islands unless—

(a) the appropriate Minister is satisfied that the pony is intended for breeding, riding or exhibition and—

(i) it is not of less value than £300, or

(ii) in the case of a pony not exceeding 122 centimetres in height other than a pony of the Shetland breed not exceeding 107 centimetres in height, it is not of less value than £220, or

(iii) in the case of such a pony of the Shetland breed, it is not of less value than £145, or

(iv) such other value in any of those cases as may be prescribed by order of the Ministers; and

(b) Immediately before shipment the pony has been individually inspected by a veterinary inspector and has been certified in writing by the inspector to be capable of being conveyed to the port or aerodrome to which it is to be shipped, and disembarked, without unnecessary suffering.

(2) Without prejudice to paragraph (b) of subsection (1) above, a veterinary inspector shall not certify a pony to be capable of being conveyed and disembarked as described in that subsection if—

(a) being a mare, it is in his opinion heavy in foal, showing fullness of udder or too old to travel; or

(b) being a foal, it is in his opinion too young to travel.

42 Restriction on export of registered ponies. E+W+S

It is an offence against this Act to ship or attempt to ship a registered pony in any vessel or aircraft from any port or aerodrome in Great Britain to any port or aerodrome outside the British Islands unless there has first been obtained from the secretary of a society in whose stud book the pony is registered a certificate (“the export certificate”) that the pony is registered with that society.

For the purposes of this section the expression “registered pony” means a pony registered in—

(a) the Arab Horse Society Stud Book,

(b) the National Pony Society Stud Book,

(c) the British Palomino Society Stud Book, or

(d) the British Spotted Horse and Pony Society Stud Book, or in the stud book of any of the following native breed societies, namely, English Connemara, Dales, Dartmoor, Exmoor, Fell, Highland, New Forest, Shetland and Welsh.

43 Regulation of export of ponies. E+W+S

The Ministers shall by order make such provision as they think necessary or expedient for the following purposes—

(a) for prohibiting the export of ponies by sea or air from any place in Great Britain to any place outside the British Islands unless such ponies are rested immediately before being loaded in the vessel or aircraft in which they are to be carried;

(b) for regulating and prescribing the premises at which and the periods during which ponies are to be so rested;

(c) for prescribing and regulating the cleansing and supervision of such premises and the provision at them of clean and sufficient bedding and adequate supplies of fodder and water.

Other provisions as to export of horses E+W+S

44 Slaughter on examination of inspection. E+W+S

If any horse examined under section 40(1) above or inspected under section 41(1) above is found by the veterinary inspector—

(a) to be in such physical condition that it is cruel to keep it alive, or

(b) to be permanently incapable of being worked without suffering,

the inspector shall forthwith slaughter it (or cause it to be slaughtered) with a mechanically operated instrument suitable and sufficient for the purpose, and no compensation shall be made to the owner of that animal.

45 Marking of horses certified for export. E+W+S

(1) A veterinary inspector may, for the purposes of identification, mark a horse certified by him under section 40(1) above or section 41(1) above in such manner as the Ministers may by order prescribe.

(2) A person who, with a view to evading the provisions of section 40 above or section 41 above, marks a horse—

(a) with the prescribed mark, or

(b) with any mark so nearly resembling it as to be calculated to deceive,

is guilty of an offence against this Act.

46 Slaughter of injured horses. E+W+S

(1) If any horse shipped from any port in Great Britain to any port outside the British Islands has a limb broken or is otherwise seriously injured while on board so as to be incapable of being disembarked without cruelty—

(a) the master of the vessel shall forthwith cause the animal to be slaughtered; and

(b) every vessel on which a horse is so shipped shall carry a proper killing instrument, to be approved by the Ministers for that purpose.

(2) It is the duty of the owner and master of every such vessel to see that the vessel is provided with such an instrument, and the master, if so required by an inspector, shall produce the instrument for his inspection.

47 Exemption of thoroughbreds in transit. E+W+S

Sections 40 and 41 and 46 above shall not apply in the case of shipment of any thoroughbred horse certified in writing by a steward or the secretary of the Jockey Club—

(a) to have arrived in Great Britain not more than one month before the date of shipment for the purpose of being run in a race; or

(b) to be shipped for the purpose of being run in a race; or

(c) to be shipped in order to be used for breeding purposes.

48 Certificates. E+W+S

Where—

(a) a certificate is given under section 40(1), section 41(1) or section 47 above, or

(b) an export certificate is given under section 42 above,

that certificate shall be delivered at the time of shipment to the master of the vessel or the pilot of the aircraft on which the animal is shipped, who shall—

(i) on demand produce the certificate to any constable or any inspector or other officer of the appropriate Minister or the local authority; and

(ii) allow such constable, inspector or other officer to take a copy of or extract from the certificate.

49 Enforcement and interpretation. E+W+S

(1) An inspector may enter any vessel or aircraft for the purpose of ascertaining whether the provisions—

(a) of sections 40 to 42 and 44 to 48 above (in this section described as “the relevant sections”), or

(b) of any order under this Act relating to the exportation or shipment of horses,

are being complied with.

(2) Every local authority shall, if and so far as the Ministers by order so direct, execute and enforce the relevant sections.

(3) If—

(a) a person does anything or omits to do anything in contravention of the provisions of the relevant sections, or

(b) the master of a vessel or the pilot of an aircraft permits a horse to be shipped in a vessel or aircraft in contravention of those provisions,

he shall be guilty of an offence against this Act, and the provisions of this Act relating to offences and legal proceedings shall apply accordingly as if the expression “animal” in those provisions included horses.

(4) In this section and the relevant sections—

[F41 (a) “master”, “owner” and “port” have the same meanings as in the Merchant Shipping Act 1995, and “vessel” has the same meaning as “ship” in the Merchant Shipping Act 1995; and]

(b) “pilot of an aircraft” includes any other person having the command or charge of the aircraft.

Textual Amendments

F41 S. 49(4)(a) substituted (1.1.1996) by 1995 c. 21, ss. 314(2), 316(2), Sch. 13 para. 58(a)

Part IV E+W+S Local Authorities

50 Local authorities for purposes of this Act. E+W+S

(1) In this Act “local authority” has the meaning given by subsections (2) and (3) below, but subject to subsection (4) below [F42 and to section 13(3) above.]

(2) In the application of this Act to England and Wales “local authority” means—

(a) as respects a London borough, the borough council,

[F43 (b) as respects a non-metropolitan county, the county council,

[F44 (bb) as respects a county borough, the county borough council,]

(c) as respects a metropolitan district, the district council,]

and the Common Council of the City of London shall be the local authority—

(i)

for the City of London, and

(ii)

in and for the whole of Greater London for the purpose of the provisions of this Act relating to imported animals.

(3) In the application of this Act to Scotland “local authority” means a [F45 council constituted under section 2 of the Local Government etc. (Scotland) Act 1994].

(4) Where the district or part of a district of a local authority is or comprises, or is comprised in—

(a) a port or part of a port, or

(b) an aerodrome or part of an aerodrome,

the appropriate Minister may, if he thinks fit, in relation to either paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) above by order make any body, other than the local authority under subsection (2) or subsection (3) above, the local authority for the purposes of the provisions of this Act relating to imported animals.

(5) A local authority shall execute and enforce this Act and every order of the Minister so far as they are to be executed and enforced by local authorities.

Textual Amendments

F42 Words in s. 50(1) inserted (14.2.1992 for certain purposes and 1.4.1992 in so far as not already in force) by Environmental Protection Act 1990 (c. 43, SIF 46:4), s. 151(2); S.I. 1992/266, arts. 2, 3.

F43 S. 50(2)(b)(c) substituted for para. (b) by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 16, Sch. 8 para. 18

F44 S. 50(2)(bb) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 66(6), Sch. 16 para. 61; S.I. 1996/393, art. 4, Sch. 2

F45 Words in s. 50(3) substituted (S.)(1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 39, s. 180(1), Sch. 13 para. 122; S.I. 1996/323, art. 4(1)(c)

51 Local authorities and their districts. E+W+S

(1) The provision of this Act conferring powers on, or otherwise relating to, a local authority, or their inspectors or officers shall, unless otherwise expressed, be read as having reference to the district of the local authority.

(2) The powers so conferred shall, unless it is otherwise expressed, be exercisable and shall operate within and in relation to that district only.

52 Inspectors and other officers. E+W+S

(1) Every local authority shall appoint as many inspectors and other officers as the local authority think necessary for the execution and enforcement of this Act.

(2) Every local authority shall assign to those inspectors and officers such duties, and salaries or allowances, and may delegate to any of them such authorities and discretion, as to the local authority seem fit, and may at any time revoke any appointment so made.

53 Borrowing powers. E+W+S

(1) A local authority may borrow for the purposes of this Act.

(2) In Scotland the power conferred by this section shall only be exercisable where the expenditure of the local authority under this Act requiring to be met out of rates in any financial year exceeds or would exceed the produce of a rate of 2½p. in the pound on the rateable valuation of the authority’s area.

54 Provision of wharves etc. E+W+S

(1) A local authority may provide, erect and fit up wharves, stations, lairs, sheds and other places for the landing, reception, keeping, sale, slaughter or disposal of imported or other animals, carcases, fodder, litter, dung and other things.

(2) There shall be incorporated with this Act the M6 Markets and Fairs Clauses Act 1847, except sections 6 to 9, and 52 to 59.

(3) A wharf or other place provided by a local authority under this section shall be a market within that Act, and this Act shall be the special Act; and

(a) the prescribed limits shall be the limits of lands acquired or appropriated for the purposes of this section;

(b) byelaws shall be approved by the appropriate Minister, which approval shall be sufficient without any other approval or allowance where—

(i) notice of application for approval has been given, and

(ii) the proposed byelaws have been published before application,

as required by that Act of 1847.

(4) A local authority may charge for the use of a wharf or other place provided by them under this section such sums as may be imposed by byelaws, and those sums shall be deemed tolls authorised by the special Act.

(5) All sums so received by a local authority in England or Wales—

(a) shall be carried to a separate account; and

(b) shall be applied in payment of interest and repayment of principal in respect of money borrowed by them under this Act; and

(c) subject to paragraph (b), shall be applied towards the discharge of their expenses under this Act.

(6) The local authority shall make such periodical returns to the appropriate Minister as he may require of their expenditure and receipts in respect of the wharf or other place.

Marginal Citations

M6 1847 c. 14.

55 Power to acquire land. E+W+S

(1) A local authority may—

(a) purchase land by agreement, or

(b) if so authorised by the Minister or the appropriate Minister, purchase land compulsorily, or

(c) by agreement take land on lease or at a rent,

for the following purposes—

(i) for wharves or other places; or

(ii) for use for burial of carcases, in cases where there is not any ground suitable in that behalf in the possession or occupation of the owner of the animal, or any common or unenclosed land suitable and approved by the Minister or the appropriate Minister in that behalf; or

(iii) for any other purpose of this Act.

(2) The powers conferred by this section may be exercised by a local authority in England or Wales with respect to land within or without their district.

(3) References in the M7 Acquisition of Land (Authorisation Procedure) Act 1946 and the M8 Acquisition of Land (Authorisation Procedure) (Scotland) Act 1947 to enactments in force immediately before the respective commencements of those Acts shall include references to this section.

This subsection is without prejudice to a paragraph (a) of section 17(2) of the M9 Interpretation Act 1978 as regards references in an Act to an enactment repealed and re-enacted.

Marginal Citations

M7 1946 c. 49.

M8 1947 c. 42.

M9 1978 c. 30.

56 Public facilities for sheep dipping. E+W+S

(1) A local authority may provide, fit up and maintain portable dipping tanks or dipping places, and afford their use, and the use of all necessary connected appliances and materials, to the public upon such terms and conditions as the local authority may think fit.

(2) Any sums received by a local authority in England or Wales for such use shall be applied by them towards the discharge of their expenses under this Act.

(3) No dipping place shall be used for the purposes of this section if such use would injuriously affect the water in any stream, reservoir, aqueduct, well, pond or place constructed or used for the supply of water for drinking or other domestic purposes.

57 Burial of carcases washed ashore. E+W+S

(1) Where a carcase washed ashore is buried or destroyed under the direction of a receiver of wreck with authority from the Secretary of State the expenses of such burial or destruction shall be expenses of the local authority.

(2) Those expenses shall be paid by the local authority to the receiver on demand, and in default of payment shall be recoverable with costs by the receiver from the local authority.

(3) Where a local authority has incurred any expenses under this section on account of the burial or destruction of the carcase of any animal which, or the carcase of which, was thrown or washed from any vessel, the owner of the vessel shall be liable to repay such expenses to the local authority.

58 Regulations. E+W+S

(1) A regulation of a local authority may be proved—

(a) by the production of a newspaper purporting to contain the regulation as an advertisement; or

(b) by the production of a copy of the regulation purporting to be certified by the clerk of the local authority as a true copy.

(2) A regulation so proved shall be taken to have been duly made, unless and until the contrary is proved.

(3) A regulation of a local authority authorised by this Act or by an order of the Minister shall alone be deemed for the purposes of this Act a regulation of a local authority.

59 Default. E+W+S

(1) Where a local authority fail to execute or enforce any of the provisions of this Act, or of an order of the Minister, the appropriate Minister may by order empower a person named in that order—

(a) to execute and enforce those provisions; or

(b) to procure their execution and enforcement.

(2) The expenses incurred under any such order or in respect of any such default by or on behalf of the appropriate Minister shall be expenses of the local authority, and

(a) the treasurer or other proper officer of the local authority shall pay the amount of such expenses to the appropriate Minister on demand; and

(b) in default of payment a person appointed by the appropriate Minister to sue in that behalf may recover the amount of such expenses from the local authority.

(3) For the purposes of this section an order of the Minister shall be conclusive in respect of any default, amount of expenses, or other matter stated or appearing in it.

(4) The provisions of this section are without prejudice to the right or power of the appropriate Minister, or any other authority or any person, to take any other proceedings for requiring a local authority to execute or enforce any of the provisions of this Act or of an order of the Minister.

Part V E+W+S Enforcement, Offences and Proceedings

Enforcement E+W+S

60 Duties and authorities of constables. E+W

(1) The police force of each police area shall execute and enforce this Act and every order of the Minister [F46 but subject, in the case of orders under section 13, to any provision made under subsection (3) of that section.]

(2) Where a person is seen or found committing, or is reasonably suspected of being engaged in committing, an offence against this Act, a constable may, without warrant, stop and detain him.

F47 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4) The constable may, whether so stopping or detaining F48 . . . the person or not—

(a) stop, detain and examine any animal, vehicle, boat or thing to which the offence or suspected offence relates; and

(b) require it to be forthwith taken back to or into any place or district from which or out of which it was unlawfully removed and execute and enforce that requisition.

(5) If a person obstructs or impedes or assists in obstructing or impeding [F49 inspector] in the execution—

(a) of this Act, or

(b) of an order of the Minister, or

(c) of a regulation of a local authority,

the F50 . . . [F49 inspector or a constable] may without warrant apprehend the offender.

(6) A person apprehended under this section—

(a) shall be taken with all practicable speed before a justice, or, in Scotland, a sheriff or district court; and

(b) shall not be detained without a warrant longer than is necessary for that purpose.

(7) All enactments relating to the release of persons on bail by an officer of police or a constable shall apply in the case of a person apprehended under this section.

(8) The foregoing provisions of this section respecting a constable extend and apply to any person called by a constable to his assistance.

(9) A constable shall forthwith make a report in writing to his superior officer of every case in which he stops any person, animal, vehicle, boat, or thing under this section, and of his proceedings in consequence.

(10) Nothing in this section shall take away or abridge any power or authority that a constable would have had if this section had not been enacted.

Extent Information

E3 This version of this provision extends to England and Wales only; a separate version has been created for Scotland only.

Textual Amendments

F46 Words in s. 60(1) inserted (14.2.1992 for certain purposes and 1.4.1992 in so far as not already in force) by Environmental Protection Act 1990 (c. 43, SIF 46:4), s. 151(3); S.I. 1992/266, art. 2, 3

F47 S. 60(3) repealed by Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (c. 60, SIF 95), Sch. 7 Pt. I.

F48 Words in s. 60(4) repealed by Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (c. 60, SIF 95), Sch. 7 Pt. I.

F49 Words in s. 60(5) substituted (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 11(a)(b); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F50 Words in s. 60(5) repealed by Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (c. 60, SIF 95), Sch. 7 Pt. I.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C13 S. 60 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(a)

C14 S. 60 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(a)

C15 S. 60 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(a)

C16 S. 60 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(a)

C17 S. 60 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(a)

C18 S. 60 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(a)

60 Duties and authorities of constables. S

(1) The police force of each police area shall execute and enforce this Act and every order of the Minister [F78 but subject, in the case of orders under section 13, to any provision made under subsection (3) of that section.]

(2) Where a person is seen or found committing, or is reasonably suspected of being engaged in committing, an offence against this Act, a constable may, without warrant, stop and detain him.

(3) If that person’s name and address are not known to the constable, and he fails to give them to the constable’s satisfaction, the constable may, without warrant, apprehend him.

(4) The constable may, whether so stopping or detaining or apprehending the person or not—

(a) stop, detain and examine any animal, vehicle, boat or thing to which the offence or suspected offence relates; and

(b) require it to be forthwith taken back to or into any place or district from which or out of which it was unlawfully removed and execute and enforce that requisition.

(5) If a person obstructs or impedes or assists in obstructing or impedinga constable or other officer in the execution—

(a) of this Act, or

(b) of an order of the Minister, or

(c) of a regulation of a local authority,

the constable or officer may without warrant apprehend the offender.

(6) A person apprehended under this section—

(a) shall be taken with all practicable speed before a justice, or, in Scotland, a sheriff or district court; and

(b) shall not be detained without a warrant longer than is necessary for that purpose.

(7) All enactments relating to the release of persons on bail by an officer of police or a constable shall apply in the case of a person apprehended under this section.

(8) The foregoing provisions of this section respecting a constable extend and apply to any person called by a constable to his assistance.

(9) A constable shall forthwith make a report in writing to his superior officer of every case in which he stops any person, animal, vehicle, boat, or thing under this section, and of his proceedings in consequence.

(10) Nothing in this section shall take away or abridge any power or authority that a constable would have had if this section had not been enacted.

Extent Information

E7 This version of this provision extends to Scotland only; a separate version has been created for England and Wales only.

Textual Amendments

F78 Words in s. 60(1) inserted (14.2.1992 for certain purposes and 1.4.1992 in so far as not already in force) by Environmental Protection Act 1990 (c. 43, SIF 46:4), s. 151(3); S.I. 1992/266, art. 2, 3

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C13 S. 60 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(a)

C14 S. 60 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(a)

C15 S. 60 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(a)

C16 S. 60 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(a)

C17 S. 60 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(a)

C18 S. 60 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(a)

61 Powers of arrest as to rabies. E+W+S

(1) Without prejudice to the powers of arrest conferred by section 60 above or otherwise, a constable may arrest without warrant any person whom he, with reasonable cause, suspects to be in the act of committing or to have committed an offence to which this section applies.

(2) The offences to which this section applies are offences against this Act consisting of—

(a) the landing or attempted landing of any animal [F51 or importation or attempted importation through the tunnel system as defined in the Channel Tunnel Act 1987 of any animal] in contravention of an order made under this Act and expressed to be made for the purpose of preventing the introduction of rabies into Great Britain; or

(b) the failure by the person having the charge or control of any vessel or boat to discharge any obligation imposed on him in that capacity by such an order; or

(c) the movement, in contravention of an order under section 17 or section 23 above, of any animal into, within or out of a place or area declared to be infected with rabies.

Textual Amendments

F51 Words inserted by S.I. 1990/2371, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

62 Entry and search under s. 61. E+W+S

(1) For the purpose of arresting a person under the power conferred by section 61 above a constable may enter (if need be, by force) and search any vessel, boat, aircraft or vehicle of any other description in which that person is or in which the constable, with reasonable cause, suspects him to be.

(2) For the purpose of exercising any power to seize an animal or cause an animal to be seized, and—

(a) where that power is conferred on constables by an order made under this Act, and

(b) where that power is expressed to be made for the purpose of preventing the introduction of rabies into Great Britain.

a constable may enter (if need be, by force) and search any vessel, boat, aircraft or vehicle of any other description in which there is, or in which he, with reasonable cause, suspects that there is, an animal to which that power applies.

[F52 62A Slaughter: power of entry E+W

(1) An inspector may at any time enter any premises for the purpose of—

(a) ascertaining whether a power conferred by or under this Act to cause an animal to be slaughtered should be exercised, or

(b) doing anything in pursuance of the exercise of that power.

(2) In this section and sections 62B and 62C premises includes any land, building or other place.]

Textual Amendments

F52 Ss. 62A-62C inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 8(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F53 62B Slaughter: warrants E+W

(1) If a justice of the peace is satisfied on sworn information in writing that the first condition is satisfied and that the second or third condition is satisfied he may issue a warrant authorising an inspector to enter any premises, if necessary using reasonable force, for the purpose mentioned in section 62A.

(2) The information must include—

(a) a statement as to whether any representations have been made by the occupier of the land or premises to an inspector concerning the purpose for which the warrant is sought;

(b) a summary of any such representations.

(3) The first condition is that there are reasonable grounds for an inspector to enter the premises for that purpose.

(4) The second condition is that each of the following applies to the occupier of the premises—

(a) he has been informed of the decision to seek entry to the premises and of the reasons for that decision;

(b) he has failed to allow entry to the premises on being requested to do so by an inspector;

(c) he has been informed of the decision to apply for the warrant.

(5) The third condition is that—

(a) the premises are unoccupied or the occupier is absent and (in either case) notice of intention to apply for the warrant has been left in a conspicuous place on the premises, or

(b) an application for admission to the premises or the giving of notice of intention to apply for the warrant would defeat the object of entering the premises.

(6) A warrant issued under this section remains in force for one month starting with the date of its approval by the justice of the peace, which date shall be clearly visible on the warrant.

(7) A warrant issued under this section must be executed only at a reasonable hour unless the inspector thinks that the case is one of urgency.

(8) In relation to any premises to which entry is obtained by virtue of a warrant under this section the Secretary of State must retain for a period of not less than 12 months beginning with the day after entry—

(a) a copy of the warrant;

(b) a copy of any record of the steps taken to effect entry to the premises and the actions taken on the premises by the inspector and any other person entering the premises with him.

Textual Amendments

F53 Ss. 62A-62C inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 8(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F54 62C Slaughter: supplementary E+W

(1) This section applies to an inspector who enters any premises by virtue of section 62A or under a warrant issued under section 62B.

(2) The inspector may take with him—

(a) such other persons as he thinks necessary to give him such assistance as he thinks necessary;

(b) such equipment as he thinks necessary.

(3) The inspector may require any person on the premises who falls within subsection (4) to give him such assistance as he may reasonably require for the purpose mentioned in section 62A.

(4) The following persons fall within this subsection—

(a) the occupier of the premises;

(b) a person appearing to the inspector to have charge of animals on the premises;

(c) a person appearing to the inspector to be under the direction or control of a person mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b).

(5) If the inspector enters any premises by virtue of a warrant issued under section 62B he must at the time of entry—

(a) serve a copy of the warrant on the occupier of the premises, or (if the occupier is not on the premises)

(b) leave a copy of the warrant in a conspicuous place on the premises.

(6) If the inspector enters any unoccupied premises he must leave them as effectively secured against entry as he found them.

Textual Amendments

F54 Ss. 62A-62C inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 8(1); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

[F55 62D Tests and samples: power of entry E+W

(1) A veterinary inspector may at any time enter any premises for the purpose of ascertaining—

(a) whether disease anti-bodies exist in animals on the premises;

(b) whether any animal on the premises or which was kept there at any time is, or was at that time, infected with disease;

(c) whether any causative agent of disease is present on the premises.

(2) Disease is foot-and-mouth disease and such other disease as the Secretary of State may by order specify.

(3) No order may be made under subsection (2) unless a draft of the order has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.

(4) Causative agent includes any virus, bacterium and any other organism or infectious substance which may cause or transmit disease.

(5) In this section and sections 62E and 62F premises includes any land, building or other place.]

Textual Amendments

F55 Ss. 62D-62F inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 9; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F56 62E Tests and samples: warrants E+W

(1) If a justice of the peace is satisfied on sworn information in writing that the first condition is satisfied and that the second or third condition is satisfied he may issue a warrant authorising a veterinary inspector to enter any premises, if necessary using reasonable force, for the purpose mentioned in section 62D.

(2) The information must include—

(a) a statement as to whether any representations have been made by the occupier of the land or premises to an inspector concerning the purpose for which the warrant is sought;

(b) a summary of any such representations.

(3) The first condition is that there are reasonable grounds for a veterinary inspector to enter the premises for that purpose.

(4) The second condition is that each of the following applies to the occupier of the premises—

(a) he has been informed of the decision to seek entry to the premises and of the reasons for that decision;

(b) he has failed to allow entry to the premises on being requested to do so by an inspector;

(c) he has been informed of the decision to apply for the warrant.

(5) The third condition is that—

(a) the premises are unoccupied or the occupier is absent and (in either case) notice of intention to apply for the warrant has been left in a conspicuous place on the premises, or

(b) an application for admission to the premises or the giving of notice of intention to apply for the warrant would defeat the object of entering the premises.

(6) A warrant issued under this section remains in force for one month starting with the date of its approval by the justice of the peace, which date shall be clearly visible on the warrant.

(7) A warrant issued under this section must be executed only at a reasonable hour unless the inspector thinks that the case is one of urgency.

(8) In relation to any premises to which entry is obtained by virtue of a warrant under this section the Secretary of State must retain for a period of not less than 12 months beginning with the day after entry—

(a) a copy of the warrant;

(b) a copy of any record of the steps taken to effect entry to the premises and the actions taken on the premises by the inspector and any other person entering the premises with him.

Textual Amendments

F56 Ss. 62D-62F inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, art. 9; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

F57 62F Tests and samples: supplementary E+W

(1) This section applies to a veterinary inspector who enters any premises by virtue of section 62D or under a warrant issued under section 62E.

(2) The inspector may take with him—

(a) such other persons as he thinks necessary to give him such assistance as he thinks necessary;

(b) such equipment as he thinks necessary.

(3) The inspector may take such samples (including samples from any animal on the premises) and carry out such tests as he thinks are necessary for the purpose mentioned in section 62D(1).

(4) The inspector may require any person on the premises who falls within subsection (5) to give him such assistance as he may reasonably require for the purpose mentioned in section 62D(1).

(5) The following persons fall within this subsection—

(a) the occupier of the premises;

(b) a person appearing to the inspector to have charge of animals on the premises;

(c) a person appearing to the inspector to be under the direction or control of a person mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b).

(6) If the inspector enters any unoccupied premises he must leave them as effectively secured against entry as he found them.

(7) If the inspector enters any premises by virtue of a warrant issued under section 62E he must at the time of entry—

(a) serve a copy of the warrant on the occupier of the premises, or (if the occupier is not on the premises)

(b) leave a copy of the warrant in a conspicuous place on the premises.

(8) A person commits an offence if—

(a) he is required to give assistance under subsection (4), and

(b) he fails to give it.

Textual Amendments

F57 Ss. 62D-62F inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 9; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

63 General powers of inspectors. E+W+S

(1) An inspector has—

(a) for the purposes of this Act, but

(b) with the exception of the powers conferred by sections 61 and 62 above,

all the powers which a constable has, under this Act or otherwise, in the place where the inspector is acting.

(2) An inspector may at any time enter any land or shed to which this Act applies, or other building or place where he has reasonable grounds for supposing—

(a) that disease exists or has within 56 days existed; or

(b) that the carcase of a diseased or suspected animal is or has been kept, or has been buried, destroyed, or otherwise disposed of; or

(c) that there is to be found any pen, place, vehicle, or thing in respect of which any person has on any occasion failed to comply with the provisions of this Act, or of an order of the Minister, or of a regulation of a local authority; or

(d) that this Act or an order of the Minister or a regulation of a local authority has not been or is not being complied with.

(3) An inspector may at any time enter any pen, vehicle, vessel, boat or aircraft in which or [F58 in respect of which] he has reasonable grounds for supposing that this Act or an order of the Minister or a regulation of a local authority has not been or is not being complied with.

(4) An inspector entering as authorised by the foregoing provisions of this section shall, if required by the owner, or occupier, or person in charge of the land, building, place, pen, vehicle, vessel, boat or aircraft state in writing his reasons for entering.

(5) For the purpose of ascertaining whether the provisions of any order under section 10 above or the conditions of any licence issued in accordance with any such order are being complied with, an inspector may at any time enter—

(a) any vessel, boat, aircraft or vehicle of any other description which is for the time being within the limits of a port, within the meaning of the M10 Customs and Excise Management Act 1979, or at a customs and excise airport, within the meaning of that Act; or

(b) any vessel, boat or aircraft which does not fall within paragraph (a) above but which he has reasonable grounds for supposing has recently been brought into Great Britain.

(6) Without prejudice to subsection (5) above, an inspector may at any time enter—

(a) any land, building or other place, or

(b) any vessel, boat, aircraft or vehicle of any other description,

on or in which he has reasonable grounds for supposing that there is being or has been kept any animal or other thing which has been imported and the importation of which is for the time being prohibited or regulated by an order under section 10; and in this subsection “animals” and “imported” have the same meaning as in that section.

(7) A certificate of a veterinary inspector to the effect that an animal is or was affected with a disease specified in the certificate shall, for the purposes of this Act, be conclusive evidence in all courts of justice of the matter certified.

(8) An inspector of the Minister has all the powers of an inspector throughout Great Britain or that part for which he is appointed.

(9) In addition to the powers conferred by this section upon inspectors, an inspector of the Minister may at any time, [F59 enter any land, building or other place, on or in which he has reasonable grounds for supposing that animals are or have been kept, for the purpose of ascertaining whether any disease exists there or has within 56 days existed there.

This subsection does not have effect in relation to poultry.]

Textual Amendments

F58 Words substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), Sch. 1 para. 4

F59 Words substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 2(1)

Marginal Citations

M10 1979 c. 2.

64 Powers of inspectors as to poultry. E+W+S

(1) An inspector of the Ministry and, if so authorised by an order of the Minister, an inspector of a local authority, may at any time enter any pen, shed, land or other place in which he has reasonable grounds for supposing that poultry are or have been kept, for the purpose of ascertaining whether disease exists or has existed in or on them.

(2) For the purpose of enforcing any order for protecting poultry from unnecessary suffering, an inspector may examine—

(a) poultry in any circumstances to which the order relates, and

(b) any receptacle or vehicle used for their conveyance or exposure for sale,

and he may enter any premises, vessel or aircraft in which he has reasonable ground for supposing that there are poultry—

(i) exposed for sale; or

(ii) in course of conveyance; or

(iii) packed for conveyance or exposure for sale.

[64A F60 Powers of inspectors relating to Community obligations E+W+S

In addition to the powers conferred by sections 63 and 64, an inspector (on producing, if required to do so, some duly authenticated document showing his authority) may at all reasonable hours—

(a) enter—

(i) any land, building, or other place, or

(ii) any vessel, boat, aircraft, hovercraft or vehicle of any other description,

for the purpose of ascertaining whether the provisions of any order made under this Act in implementation of any Community obligation have been or are being complied with, and

(b) carry out such inspections (including inspection of documents) as may be necessary for that purpose.]

Textual Amendments

F60 S. 64A added (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3293, reg.2

65 Power to detain vessels and aircraft. E+W+S

(1) Where an inspector of the Minister is satisfied that this Act or an order of the Minister or a regulation of a local authority has not been or is not being complied with on board a vessel in port, then, on the inspector’s representation in writing to that effect, stating particulars of non-compliance, the vessel may be detained until the appropriate Minister otherwise directs.

(2) The officer detaining the vessel shall forthwith deliver to the master or person in charge of the vessel a copy of the representation.

(3) Section [F61 284 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995] shall apply in the case of such detention as if it were authorised or ordered under that Act.

(4) In relation to aircraft the Ministers may—

(a) by an order under this Act adapt that section of the [F62 1995 Act] as applied in the case of the detention of a vessel under this section; or

(b) make such other provision instead of it as they think expedient.

Textual Amendments

F61 Words in s. 65(3) substituted (1.1.1996) by 1995 c. 21, ss. 314(2), 316(2), Sch. 13 para. 58(b)(i)

F62 Words in s. 65(4)(a) substituted (1.1.1996) by 1995 c. 21, ss. 314(2), 316(2), Sch. 13 para. 58(b)(ii)

[F63 65A Inspection of vehicles E+W

(1) If each of the conditions in subsection (2) is satisfied, an inspector may stop, detain and inspect any vehicle to ascertain whether the provisions of any of the following are being complied with—

(a) this Act;

(b) an order made under this Act;

(c) a regulation of a local authority made in pursuance of such an order.

(2) The conditions are—

(a) that the vehicle is in a designated area in a designated period;

(b) that the inspector is accompanied by a constable in uniform.

(3) In subsection (2) “designated” means designated by an order made by the Secretary of State.

(4) A vehicle includes—

(a) a trailer, semi-trailer or other thing which is designed or adapted to be towed by another vehicle;

(b) anything on a vehicle;

(c) a detachable part of a vehicle;

(d) a container or other structure designed or adapted to be carried by or on a vehicle.]

Textual Amendments

F63 S. 65A inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 10; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

66 Refusal and obstruction. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act who, without lawful authority or excuse, proof of which shall lie on him—

(a) refuses to an inspector or other officer, acting in execution of this Act, or of an order of the Minister, or of a regulation of a local authority, admission to any land, building, place, pen, vessel, boat, aircraft or vehicle of any other description which the inspector or officer is entitled to enter or examine; or

(b) obstructs or impedes him in so entering or examining; or

(c) otherwise in any respect obstructs or impedes an inspector or constable or other officer in the execution of his duty, or assists in any such obstructing or impeding.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C19 S. 66 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(b)

C20 S. 66 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(b)

C21 S. 66 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(b)

C22 S. 66 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(b)

C23 S. 66 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(b)

C24 S. 66 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(b)

[F64 66A Refusal and obstruction of inspector E+W

(1) A person commits an offence if without lawful authority or excuse (proof of which shall lie on him) he—

(a) refuses admission to any premises to a person acting under section 62A above,

(b) obstructs or impedes him in so acting, or

(c) assists in any such obstruction or impeding.

(2) A person commits an offence if—

(a) he is required to give assistance under section 62C(3), and

(b) he fails to give it.]

Textual Amendments

F64 S. 66A inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 8(2); S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

Offences as to licences, declarations, certificates and instruments E+W+S

67 Issue of false licences etc. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act—

(a) who grants or issues a licence, certificate or instrument made or issued, or purporting to be made or issued under or for any purpose of this Act, or of an order of the Minister, or of a regulation of a local authority, which is false in any date or other material particular, unless he shows to the court’s satisfaction that he did not know of that falsity, and that he could not with reasonable diligence have obtained knowledge of it; or

(b) who grants or issues such a licence, certificate or instrument not having, and knowing that he has not, lawful authority to grant or issue it.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 S. 67 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(c)

C26 S. 67 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(c)

C27 S. 67 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(c)

C28 S. 67 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(c)

C29 S. 67 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(c)

C30 S. 67 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(c)

68 Issue of licences etc. in blank. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act—

(a) who, with intent unlawfully to evade or defeat this Act, or an order of the Minister, or a regulation of a local authority, grants or issues an instrument being in form a licence, certificate or instrument made or issued under this Act, or such an order or regulation, for permitting or regulating the movement of a particular animal, or the doing of any other particular thing, but being issued in blank, that is to say, not being before its issue so filled up as to specify any particular animal or thing;

(b) who uses or offers or attempts to use for any purpose of this Act, or such an order or regulation, an instrument so issued in blank, unless he shows to the court’s satisfaction that he did not know of it having been so issued in blank, and that he could not with reasonable diligence have obtained knowledge of it.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C31 S. 68 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(d)

C32 S. 68 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(d)

C33 S. 68 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(d)

C34 S. 68 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(d)

C35 S. 68 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(d)

C36 S. 68 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(d)

69 Falsely obtaining licences etc. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act—

(a) who for the purpose of obtaining a licence, certificate or instrument makes a declaration or statement false in any material particular, or

(b) who obtains or endeavours to obtain a licence, certificate or instrument by means of a false pretence,

unless he shows to the court’s satisfaction that he did not know of that falsity, and that he could not with reasonable diligence have obtained knowledge of it.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C37 S. 69 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(2)

C38 S. 69 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(2)

C39 S. 69 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(2)

C40 S. 69 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(2)

C41 S. 69 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(2)

C42 S. 69 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(2)

[F65 70 Alteration of licences etc. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act, who, with intent unlawfully to evade this Act, or an order of the Minister, or a regulation of a local authority—

(a) alters, or falsely makes, or ante-dates, or counterfeits a licence, declaration, certificate or instrument made or issued, or purporting to be made or issued, under or for any purpose of this Act or such an order or regulation; or

(b) offers or utters such a licence, declaration, certificate or instrument knowing it to be altered, or falsely made, or ante-dated or counterfeited.]

Textual Amendments

F65 S. 70 repealed (E.W.) by Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48, SIF 39:1), Sch. 16

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C43 S. 70 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(e)

C44 S. 70 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(e)

71 Other offences as to licences. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act—

(a) who, with intent unlawfully to evade this Act, or an order of the Minister, or a regulation of a local authority, does anything for which a licence is requisite under this Act, or such an order or regulation, without having obtained a licence; or

(b) who, where a licence is so requisite, having obtained a licence, with the like intent does the thing licensed after the licence has expired; or

(c) who uses or offers or attempts to use as such a licence—

(i) an instrument not being a complete licence, or

(ii) an instrument untruly purporting or appearing to be a licence,

unless he shows to the court’s satisfaction that he did not know of that incompleteness or untruth, and that he could not with reasonable diligence have obtained knowledge of it.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C45 S. 71 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(e)

C46 S. 71 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(f)

C47 S. 71 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(e)

C48 S. 71 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(e)

C49 S. 71 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(f)

C50 S. 71 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(e)

Offences generally E+W+S

[F66 71A Prosecutions: time limit E+W

(1) Despite anything in section 127(1) of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980 an information relating to an offence under this Act which is triable by a magistrates’ court in England and Wales may be so tried if it is laid at any time—

(a) within the period of three years starting with the date of the commission of the offence, and

(b) within the period of six months starting with the day on which evidence which the prosecutor thinks is sufficient to justify the proceedings comes to his knowledge.

(2) A certificate by the prosecutor as to the date on which such evidence came to his knowledge is conclusive evidence of that fact.]

Textual Amendments

F66 S. 71A inserted (E.W.) (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 14; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C51 S. 71A applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(f)

C52 S. 71A applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(f)

C53 S. 71A applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(f)

C54 S. 71A applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(f)

72 Offences made and declared by and under this Act. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act who, without lawful authority or excuse, proof of which shall lie on him—

(a) does or omits anything the doing or omission of which is declared by this Act or by an order of the Minister to be an offence by that person against this Act; or

(b) does anything which by this Act or such an order is made or declared to be not lawful.

73 General offences. E+W+S

A person is guilty of an offence against this Act who, without lawful authority or excuse, proof of which shall lie on him—

(a) does anything in contravention of this Act, or of an order of the Minister, or of a regulation of a local authority; or

(b) fails to give, produce, observe or do any notice, licence, rule or thing which by this Act or such an order or regulation he is required to give, produce, observe or do.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C55 S. 73 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(g)

C56 S. 73 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(g)

C57 S. 73 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(g)

C58 S. 73 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(g)

C59 S. 73 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(g)

C60 S. 73 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(g)

Further provisions as to punishment of offences E+W+S

74 Liability under the customs and excise Acts. E+W+S

A person who—

(a) lands or ships or attempts to land or ship [F67 or brings or attempts to bring through the tunnel system as defined in the Channel Tunnel Act 1987] an animal or thing, and

(b) by so doing is in contravention of this Act or of an order of the Minister,

is liable under and according to the customs and excise Acts to the penalties imposed on persons importing or exporting or attempting to import or export goods the importation or exportation of which is prohibited.

This section is without prejudice to any proceeding under this Act against such a person for an offence against this Act.

Textual Amendments

F67 Words inserted by S.I. 1990/2371, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

[F68 75 Penalties for certain summary offences E+W

(1) This section applies to any offence under this Act for which no penalty is specified.

(2) A person guilty of an offence to which this section applies is liable on summary conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale or to both.]

Extent Information

E4 This version of this provision extends to England and Wales only; a separate version has been created for Scotland only

Textual Amendments

F68 S. 75 substituted (14.1.2003) by 2002 c. 42, s. 13; S.I. 2002/3044, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C61 S. 75 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(h)

C62 S. 75 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(h)

C63 S. 75 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(h)

C64 S. 75 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(h)

75 Punishment of summary offences not otherwise provided for. S

(1) A person guilty of an offence against this Act for which a penalty is not provided by any other provision of this Act shall be liable on summary conviction—

(a) to a fine not exceeding [F79 level 5 on the standard scale]; or

(b) if the offence is committed with respect to more than 10 animals, to a fine not exceeding [F80 level 3 on the standard scale] for each animal; or

(c) where the offence is committed in relation to carcases, fodder, litter, dung or other thing (exclusive of animals), to a fine not exceeding [F81 level 3 on the standard scale] in respect of every 508 kilogrammes in weight thereof after the first 508 kilogrammes in addition to the first fine not exceeding £400.

(2) An order—

(a) made under this Act, and

(b) expressed to be made for the purpose of preventing the introduction or spreading of rabies into or within Great Britain,

may direct that paragraph (a) of subsection (1) above shall have effect in relation to any summary offence against this Act the existence of which is attributable to the provisions of that order as if for “£400” there were substituted “£1,000”.

(3) That paragraph (a) of subsection (1) shall have effect as provided by subsection (2) above in relation to any summary offence the existence of which is attributable to the provisions of either of the following orders—

(a) M29 Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and Other Mammals) Order 1974; and

(b) M30 Rabies (Control) Order 1974.

(4) A person convicted of an offence under any of the following provisions of this Act—

• section 15(7),

• paragraph (a) of section 35(4),

• section 66,

• section 72, and

• section 73,

is liable in the court's discretion on a further conviction for a second or subsequent offence against the same provision to imprisonment for any term not exceeding one month in lieu of the fine to which he is liable under subsection (1) above.

(5) A person convicted of an offence under any of the following provisions of this Act—

• section 8(2),

• paragraph (b) of section 35(4),

• section 67,

• section 68,

• section 69,

• section 70, and

• section 71,

is liable in the court's discretion to imprisonment for any term not exceeding 2 months in lieu of the fine to which he is liable under subsection (1) above.

(6) Nothing in this section applies in relation to an offence punishable under section 4 above.

Extent Information

E8 This version of this provision extends to Scotland only; a separate version has been created for England and Wales only

Textual Amendments

F79 Words substituted by virtue of Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21, SIF 39:1), ss. 289F, 289G

F80 Words substituted by virtue of Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21, SIF 39:1), ss. 289F, 289G

F81 Words substituted by virtue of Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21, SIF 39:1), ss. 289F, 289G

Marginal Citations

M29 S.I. 1974/2211.

M30 S.I. 1974/2212.

76 Certain importation offences triable either summarily or on indictment. E+W+S

(1) Where—

(a) an offence against this Act which is declared to be such by an order under section 10 above, and

(b) that order is expressed to be made for the purpose of preventing the introduction of rabies into Great Britain,

that offence may be tried either summarily or on indictment.

(2) For an offence triable under subsection (1) above a person shall be liable—

(a) on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum;

(b) on conviction on indictment to a fine or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both.

(3) Where an order under section 10 declares that this subsection applies to an offence which consists of—

(a) a contravention of, or failure to comply with, any provision of that order, or

(b) a failure to observe any conditions to which a licence issued in accordance with that order is subject,

that offence may be tried either summarily or on indictment, and a person convicted of such an offence shall be liable as provided in paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (2) above.

F69 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F69 S. 76(4) repealed (5.11.1993) by 1993 c. 50, s. 1(1), Sch. 1 Pt.XIV.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C65 S. 76(3) applied by S.I. 1986/2265, arts. 11, 12

Proceedings E+W+S

77 Money recoverable summarily. E+W+S

Any money by this Act or an order of the Minister made recoverable summarily may be so recovered as a civil debt, and in England and Wales this shall be in accordance with the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980.

F70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F70 Words in s. 77 repealed (22.7.2004) by Statute Law (Repeals) Act 2004 (c. 14), Sch. 1 Pt. 17 Group 1

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C66 S. 77 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(i)

C67 S. 77 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(h)

C68 S. 77 applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(i)

C69 S. 77 applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(h)

C70 S. 77 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(i)

C71 S. 77 applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(i)

78 Appeal. E+W+S

If any person thinks himself aggrieved—

(a) by the dismissal of a complaint by, or

(b) by any determination or adjudication of,

a magistrates’ court in England or Wales under this Act, he may appeal to the Crown Court.

Nothing in this section applies in relation to an offence punishable under section 4 above.

79 Evidence and procedure. E+W+S

(1) In any proceeding under this Act no proof shall be required of the appointment or handwriting of an inspector or other officer of the Minister or of the clerk or an inspector or other officer of a local authority.

(2) Where the owner or person in charge of an animal is charged with an offence against this Act relative to disease or to any illness of the animal, he shall be presumed to have known of the existence of the disease or illness unless and until he shows to the court’s satisfaction that—

(a) he had not knowledge of the existence of that disease or illness, and

(b) he could not with reasonable diligence have obtained that knowledge.

(3) Where a person—

(a) is charged with an offence against this Act in not having duly cleansed or disinfected any place, vessel, aircraft, vehicle or thing belonging to him or under his charge, and

(b) a presumption against him on the part of the prosecution is raised,

it shall lie on him to prove the due cleansing and disinfection mentioned in paragraph (a).

(4) Every offence against this Act shall be deemed to have been committed, and every cause of complaint or matter for summary proceeding under this Act or an order of the Minister or regulation of a local authority shall be deemed to have arisen, either in any place—

(a) where it actually was committed or arose; or

(b) where the person charged or complained of or proceeded against happens to be at the time of the institution or commencement of the charge, complaint or proceeding.

(5) Nothing in subsections (2) to (4) above applies in relation to an offence under section 4 above.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C72 S. 79(1)-(4) applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/531), regs. 1(1), 7(1)(i)

C73 S. 79(1)-(4) applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2984), regs. 1, 7(1)(j)

C74 S. 79(1)-(4) applied (S.) (28.10.2005 at midnight) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/530), regs. 1(1), 10(1)(i)

C75 S. 79(1)-(4) applied (W.) (28.10.2005 at 17:20) by The Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) (Wales) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2985), regs. 1, 10(1)(j)

C76 S. 79(1)-(4) applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures in Zoos) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2990), regs. 1, 7(1)(j)

C77 S. 79(1)-(4) applied (E.) (28.10.2005 at 12.00 p.m.) by Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2989), regs. 1, 10(1)(j)

Part VI U.K. Supplemental

Reports and information E+W+S

80 Yearly return to Parliament. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers shall make and lay before both Houses of Parliament not later than 31st March a yearly return stating the proceedings and expenditure under this Act of the Ministers, and, as far as reasonably may be, of all local authorities, in the year ending the previous 31st December.

(2) The return shall also—

(a) show the number of imported animals landed and found diseased in that year, specifying separately the different kinds of disease, and the ports and aerodromes of exportation and landing, and the mode of disposal of the animals; and

(b) contain such other information respecting the operation of this Act as the Ministers think fit.

81 Reports to Minister. E+W+S

Every local authority and their inspectors and officers shall give to the appropriate Minister such notices, reports, returns and information as he requires.

82 Information from Agricultural Marketing Boards. E+W+S

Every board administering a scheme under the M11 Agricultural Marketing Act 1958 shall give to the appropriate Minister such information as he may reasonably require for the purposes of his functions under this Act.

Marginal Citations

M11 1958 c. 47.

Notices, fees, and exemption from stamp duty E+W+S

83 Form and service of instruments. E+W+S

(1) Every notice under this Act or under any order or regulation made under this Act must be in writing.

(2) The Ministers may make such orders as they think fit for prescribing and regulating the form and mode of service or delivery of notices and other instruments.

(3) Any notice or other instrument under this Act or under an order of the Minister or a regulation of a local authority may be served on the person to be affected by it, either—

(a) by its delivery to him personally; or

(b) by the leaving of it for him at his last known place of abode or business; or

(c) by the sending of it through the post in a letter addressed to him at his last known place of abode or business.

(4) A notice or other instrument—

(a) to be served on the occupier of any building, land or place, may, except when sent by post, be addressed to him by the designation of the occupier of that building, land or place, without naming or further describing him; and

(b) where it is to be served on the several occupiers of several buildings, lands or places, may, except when sent by post, be addressed to them collectively by the designation of the occupiers of those several buildings, lands or places, without further naming or describing them, but separate copies of it being served on them severally.

84 Fees. E+W+S

(1) The Ministers may by order made with the Treasury’s approval prescribe fees to be paid with respect to such business transacted or to be transacted under this Act as may be specified in the Order.

A Statutory instrument containing an order under this subsection shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of the Commons House of Parliament.

(2) Where—

(a) an order under subsection (1) above provides for the payment of a fee before the transaction of the business with respect to which it is payable, and

(b) the business is not transacted or not wholly transacted,

the Minister to whom the fee was paid may, if he thinks fit, repay the whole or part of the fee.

(3) Where—

(a) an order under subsection (1) provides for any fee to be paid on the making of an application in a case where previously a fee was payable only if the application was granted, then,

(b) as respects anything done in pursuance of an application made before the coming into operation of the order, the same fee shall be payable as before the coming into operation of the order and shall be so payable at the time at which it would then have been payable.

85 Exemption from stamp duty. E+W+S

No stamp duty shall be payable on any appointment, certificate, declaration, licence or thing under this Act, or an order of the Minister, or a regulation of a local authority.

Interpretation, functions, and orders etc. E+W+S

86 Ministers and their functions. E+W+S

(1) In this Act—

(a) “the Minister” means, in relation to the whole of Great Britain, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, and “Ministry” shall be construed accordingly,

(b) “the appropriate Minister” means, in relation to England, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, and in relation to Scotland or to Wales, the Secretary of State,

(c) “the Ministers” means, in relation to the whole of Great Britain, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Secretary of State for Wales, acting jointly,

but in the case of any function under the following provisions of this Act—

(i) section 21, so far as it is applicable in relation to brucellosis, tuberculosis, dourine or infestation with maggot of the warble fly,

(ii) any other provision so far as it is applica ble in relation to brucellosis, brucellosis melitensis, tuberculosis or infestation of cattle with the maggot of the warble fly,

that function, notwithstanding that it is expressed to be exercisable by the Minister or the Ministers, shall be exercisable only by the appropriate Minister.

(2) The powers and duties conferred and imposed by this Act on the Minister shall be executed and discharged by F71 . . . this Act.

Textual Amendments

F71 Words in s. 86(2) repealed (27.3.2002) by S.I. 2002/794, art. 5(2), Sch. 2 (with art. 6)

87 Meaning of “animals” and “poultry”. E+W+S

(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, “animals” means—

(a) cattle, sheep and goats, and

(b) all other ruminating animals and swine,

subject to subsections (2) and (3) below.

(2) The Ministers may by order for all or any of the purposes of this Act extend the definition of “animals” in subsection (1) above so that it shall for those or any of those purposes comprise—

(a) any kind of mammal except man; and

(b) any kind of four-footed beast which is not a mammal.

(3) The Ministers may by order for all or any of the purposes of this Act (except so far as it relates to disease) extend the definition of “animals” in subsection (1) so that it shall for those or any of those purposes comprise—

(a) fish, reptiles, crustaceans, or

(b) other cold-blooded creatures of any species,

not being creatures in respect of which an order can be made under subsection (2) above.

(4) In this Act, subject to subsection (5) below and unless the context otherwise requires, “poultry” means birds of the following species—

(a) domestic fowls, turkeys, geese, ducks, guinea-fowls and pigeons, and

(b) pheasants and partridges,

and subject to the provisions mentioned below, this Act has effect in relation to poultry as it has effect in relation to animals.

The provisions of this Act referred to above are sections [F72 15(5), 32(4), and 63(9)].

(5) The Ministers may by order for all or any of the purposes of this Act, in so far as it applies to poultry—

(a) extend the definition of “poultry” in subsection (4) above so that it shall for those or any of those purposes comprise any other species of bird; or

(b) restrict that definition so that it shall for those or any of those purposes exclude any of the species of bird mentioned in paragraph (b) of subsection (4).

Textual Amendments

F72 Words in s. 87(4) substituted by Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984 (c. 40, SIF 2:8), s. 2(2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C78 S. 87(1) extended by S.I. 1989/285, art. 2(a)

C79 S. 87(1) extended by S.I. 1991/1155, art. 2(1)

S. 87(1): definition of “animals” extended (W.) (21.7.2001) by S.I. 2001/2662, art. 1(3)(a)

C80 S. 87(1) extended for certain purposes (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3303, art. 2(a)

C81 S. 87(1) extended for certain purposes (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3304, art. 2(a)

C82 Definition of “animal” extended for certain purposes (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3159, art. 2(2)

Definition of “animal” extended (23.1.1995) by S.I. 1994/3141, art. 1(2)(a)

Definition of “animal” extended (1.8.1996) by S.I. 1996/2007, art. 3(a)

Definition of “animal”extended (21.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/2628, arts. 3(1)(a), 4(1)(a)

Definition of “animal” extended (24.1.1997) by S.I. 1996/3183, art. 3(a)

Definition of “animal” extended (23.1.1995) by S.I. 1994/3249, art. 1(2)(a)

Definition of “animal” extended (1.4.1999) by S.I. 1999/646, art. 2(a)

C83 S. 87(1) definition extended (W.) (4.3.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/482), art. 1(1)(3)(a)

C84 S. 87(1) definition extended (W.) (5.6.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) (No.2) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1470), art. 1(1)(3)(a)

C85 S. 87(1) definition extended (E.) (1.8.2003) by Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (England) (No.3) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1724), art. 1(1)(2)(a)

C86 S. 87(1) definition extended (W.) (1.8.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) (No. 3) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1968), art. 1(1)(2)(a)

C87 S. 87(2) extended (W.) (11.2.2002) (temp. until 1.12.2002) by S.I. 2002/280, arts. 1, 14

S. 87(2) extended (W.) (11.2.2002) (temp. until 1.12.2002) by S.I. 1995/11, art. 20 (as inserted by S.I. 2002/281, arts. 1, 2(1)(10))

S. 87(2) extended (E.) (11.2.2002) (temp. until 1.12.2002) by S.I. 2002/242, arts. 1, 14

C88 S. 87(4) extended by S.I. 1989/285, art. 2(b)

C89 S. 87(4) extended for certain purposes (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3303, art. 2(b)

C90 S. 87(4) extended for certain purposes (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3304, art. 2(b)

S. 87(4): definition of “poultry” extended (W.) (21.7.2001) by S.I. 2001/2662, art. 1(3)(b)

Definition of “poultry” extended (1.1.1995) by S.I. 1994/3141, art. 2(1)(a)

Definition of “poultry” extended (23.1.1995) by S.I. 1994/3249, art. 1(2)(b)

Definition of “poultry” extended (1.8.1996) by S.I. 1996/2007, art. 3(b)

Definition of “poultry” extended (21.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/2628, art. 4(1)(b)

Definition of “poultry” extended (21.1.1997) by S.I. 1996/3183, art. 3(b)

Definition of “poultry”extended (1.4.1999) by S.I. 1999/646, art. 2(b)

C91 S. 87(4) definition extended (W.) (4.3.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/482), art. 1(1)(3)(a)

C92 S. 87(4) definition extended (W.) (12.4.2003) by Diseases of Poultry (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1079), arts. 1(1), 2(1)

C93 S. 87(4) definition extended (E.) (30.4.2003) by Diseases of Poultry (England) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1078), arts. 1(1), 2(1)

C94 S. 87(4) definition extended (W.) (5.6.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) (No.2) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1470), art. 1(1)(3)(a)

C95 S. 87(4) definition extended (E.) (1.8.2003) by Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (England) (No.3) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1724), art. 1(1)(2)(a)

88 Meaning of “disease”. E+W+S

(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, “disease” means cattle plague, pleuro-pneumonia, foot-and-mouth disease, sheep-pox, sheep scab, or swine fever, subject to subsection (2) below.

(2) The Ministers may by order for all or any of the purposes of this Act extend the definition of “disease” in subsection (1) above so that it shall for those or any of those purposes comprise any other disease of animals.

(3) In this Act, in so far as it applies to poultry, and unless the context otherwise requires, “disease” means—

(a) fowl pest in any of its forms, including Newcastle disease and fowl plague; and

(b) fowl cholera, infectious bronchitis, infectious laryngotracheitis, pullorum disease, fowl typhoid, fowl pox and fowl paralysis,

subject to subsection (4) below.

(4) The Ministers may by order for all or any of the purposes of this Act—

(a) extend the definition of “disease” in subsection (3) above so that it shall for those or any of those purposes comprise any other disease of birds; or

(b) restrict that definition so that it shall for those or any of those purposes exclude any of the diseases mentioned in paragraph (b) of subsection (3).

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C96 S. 88(1): extended by S.I. 1991/1155, art. 2(b)

S. 88(1): definition of “disease” extended (W.) (21.7.2001) by S.I. 2001/2662, art. 1(3)(c)

Definition of “disease” extended (1.1.1995) by S.I. 1994/3141, art. 2(b)

S. 88(3) restricted (1.1.1995) by S.I. 1994/3141, art. 2(b)

Definition of “disease” extended (1.8.1995) by 1995/1755, art. 2

Definition of “disease” extended (1.8.1996) by 1996/2007, art. 2

Definition of “disease” extended (21.10.1996) by 1996/2628, arts. 3(1)(b), 4(1)(c), Sch. 1 Pt. I

Definition of “disease” extended (24.1.1997) by S.I. 1996/3183, art. 2

Definition of “disease” extended (1.4.1999) by S.I. 1999/646, art. 2(c)

C97 S. 88(1) definition extended (S.) (19.2.2003) by Bluetongue (Scotland) Order 2003 (S.S.I. 2003/91), arts. 1(1), 3

C98 S. 88(1) definition extended (W.) (19.2.2003) by Bluetongue (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/326), arts. 1(1), 3 (with art. 4)

C99 S. 88(1) definition extended (E.) (19.2.2003) by Bluetongue Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/130), arts. 1(1), 3

C100 S. 88(1) definition extended (W.) (4.3.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/482), art. 1(1)(3)(b)

C101 S. 88(1) definition extended (W.) (5.6.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) (No.2) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1470), art. 1(1)(3)(b)

C102 S. 88(1) definition extended (E.) (1.8.2003) by Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (England) (No.3) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1724), art. 1(1)(2)(b)

C103 S. 88(1) definition extended (W.) (1.8.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) (No. 3) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1968), art. 1(1)(2)(c)

C104 S. 88(1) definition extended (S.) (28.11.2003) by African Swine Fever (Scotland) Order 2003 (S.S.I. 2003/586), arts. 1(1), 2(3)

C105 S. 88(1) definition extended (S.) (23.9.2005) by Tuberculosis (Scotland) Order 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/434), arts. 1(1), 4

C106 S. 88(3): definition of “disease” extended (W.) (21.7.2001) by S.I. 2001/2662, art. 1(3)(d)

C107 S. 88(3) definition extended (W.) (4.3.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/482), art. 1(1)(3)(b)

C108 S. 88(3) definition extended (W.) (12.4.2003) by Diseases of Poultry (Wales) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1079), arts. 1(1), 2(2)

C109 S. 88(3) definition extended (E.) (30.4.2003) by Diseases of Poultry (England) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1078), arts. 1(1), 2(2)

C110 S. 88(3) definition extended (W.) (5.6.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) (No.2) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1470), art. 1(1)(3)(b)

C111 S. 88(3) definition extended (E.) (1.8.2003) by Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (England) (No.3) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1724), art. 1(1)(2)(b)

C112 S. 88(3) definition extended (W.) (1.8.2003) by The Transport of Animals (Cleansing and Disinfection) (Wales) (No. 3) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1968), art. 1(1)(2)(c)

89 Other interpretation provisions. E+W+S

(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires—

• “aerodrome” means any area of land or water designed, equipped, set apart or commonly used for affording facilities for the landing and departure of aircraft;

• “carcase” means the carcase of an animal and includes part of a carcase, and the meat, bones, hide, skin, hooves, offal or other part of an animal, separately or otherwise, or any portion thereof;

• “cattle” means bulls, cows, steers, heifers, and calves;

• “cattle plague” means rinderpest or the disease commonly called cattle plague;

• “the customs and excise Acts” has the meaning given by the M12 Customs and Excise Management Act 1979;

• “diseased” means affected with disease;

• “district”, when used with reference to a local authority, means the area for which the local authority exercises powers under this Act;

• “export quarantine station” has the meaning given by section 12(1) above;

• “fodder” means hay or other substance commonly used for food of animals;

• “horse” includes ass and mule;

• “imported” means brought to Great Britain from a country out of Great Britain;

• “inspector” means a person appointed to be an inspector for the purposes of this Act by the Minister or by a local authority, and, when used in relation to an officer of the Ministry, includes a veterinary inspector;

• “justice” means justice of the peace;

• “litter” means straw or other substance commonly used for bedding or otherwise for or about animals;

• “local authority” has the meaning given by section 50 above;

• “order of the Minister” means an order under this Act of the Minister, the appropriate Minister, or the Ministers, as the case may be;

• “pleuro-pneumonia” means contagious pleuro-pneumonia of cattle;

• “pony” means any horse not more than 147 centimetres in height, except a foal travelling with its dam if the dam is over 147 centimetres;

• “suspected” means suspected of being diseased;

• “swine-fever” means the disease known as typhoid fever of swine, soldier purples, red disease, hog cholera or swine-plague;

• “veterinary inspector” means a veterinary inspector appointed by the Minister.

(2) In the computation of time for the purposes of this Act, a period reckoned by days from the happening of an event or the doing of an act or thing shall be deemed to be exclusive of the day on which the event happened or the act or thing is done.

Marginal Citations

M12 1979 c. 2.

90 Application to hovercraft. E+W+S

The enactments and instruments with respect to which provision may be made by Order in Council in pursuance of section 1(1)(h) of the M13 Hovercraft Act 1968 include this Act and any instrument made or having effect as if made under it.

This section is without prejudice to section 17 of the M14 Interpretation Act 1978 (repeal and re-enactment).

Marginal Citations

M13 1968 c. 59.

M14 1978 c. 30.

91 Orders etc. E+W+S

(1) The Minister, the appropriate Minister or the Ministers, as the case may be, shall publish in the London Gazette and the Edinburgh Gazette a notice of any order of the Minister stating—

(a) that the order has been made; and

(b) where copies of the order may be obtained.

(2) Every local authority shall at their own expense publish every order of the Minister, and every licence or other instrument sent to them by the Minister, the appropriate Minister, or the Ministers—

(a) in such manner as he or they shall direct; and

(b) subject to and in the absence of any direction, by advertisement in a newspaper circulating in the district of the local authority.

(3) The validity or effect of an order of the Minister, or licence or other instrument issued by the Minister, the appropriate Minister or the Ministers shall not be affected by want of or defect or irregularity in its publication.

(4) Subsections (1) to (3) above do not apply to an order made under section 32 above.

(5) A power conferred by this Act to make an order of the Minister, other than by—

(a) section 14(2),

(b) section 59(1),

shall be exercisable by statutory instrument.

(6) An order of the Minister made under either of the provisions referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (5) above may be altered or revoked by a subsequent order made in the like manner and subject to the like conditions, but section 14(b) of the M15 Interpretation Act 1978 shall not apply to an order made by the Ministers under section 34(7) above providing that section 34(6) shall cease to have effect.

Marginal Citations

M15 1978 c. 30.

Scotland and Northern Ireland U.K.

92 General application to Scotland. E+W+S

(1) The provisions of this section have effect for the purposes of the application of this Act to Scotland.

(2) An offence against this Act may be prosecuted in the district court, and, when so prosecuted, the provisions in relation to sentences contained in [F73 section 7(6) of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995] shall apply to such a prosecution as they apply to prosecutions of common law offences.

(3) In the event of refusal or delay on the part of any person in complying with the order of a local authority, the local authority may give information of the refusal or delay to the procurator-fiscal of the district, who may apply to the sheriff for a warrant to carry such order into effect, and such warrant may be executed by the officers of the court in common form.

(4) Notwithstanding anything in any other Act, and except in relation to section 4 above, such part not exceeding one half of every fine recovered under this Act as the court before which it is recovered thinks fit shall be paid to the person who proceeds for it.

(5) Nothing in subsections (3) and (4) above applies to proceedings under the customs and excise Acts.

(6) Notwithstanding the repeal by this Act of section 17 of the M16 Diseases of Animals Act 1935, Part I of the M17 Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Act 1919 shall be deemed always to have extended to Scotland.

Textual Amendments

F73 Words in s. 92(2) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1995 c. 40, ss. 5, 7(2), Sch. 4 para. 35

Marginal Citations

M16 1935 c. 31.

M17 1919 c. 91.

93 Communications to and from Northern Ireland. U.K.

In order to secure uniformity of action—

(a) every order of the Minister shall with all practicable speed be communicated to the Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland; and

(b) every order made by that Department under the enactments in Northern Ireland relating to diseases of animals shall with all practicable speed be communicated to the Minister.

Miscellaneous provisions as to operation U.K.

94 Transitional. E+W+S

F74 (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(2) For the purpose of determining the punishment which may be imposed on a person in respect of the commission by him of an offence under any provision of this Act, an offence committed by that person under the corresponding enactment repealed by this Act shall be deemed to have been committed under that provision.

Textual Amendments

F74 S. 94(1) repealed (22.7.2004) by Statute Law (Repeals) Act 2004 (c. 14), Sch. 1 Pt. 17 Group 1

95 Savings. U.K.

(1) Any order made or having effect as if made—

(a) under any provision of sections 24 to 33 of the M18 Diseases of Animals Act 1950,

(b) before the coming into operation of section 1 of the M19 Diseases of Animals Act 1975,

continues in operation as if that section had not come into operation, except that it may be varied or revoked as if it had been made under section 10 above.

(2) In the case of an order made or having effect as if made—

(a) partly under any provision of those sections of that Act of 1950, and

(b) partly under any other enactment (whether or not contained in that Act),

subsection (1) above has effect to the extent that the order was made or had effect as if made under any of those sections.

(3) The[S.R. & O. 1919/933.] Conveyance of Live Poultry Order 1919, made under the M20 Poultry Act 1911, has effect as if it had been made under sections 7(2), 37(1) and 64(2) above.

(4) Without prejudice to section 17 of the M21 Interpretation Act 1978 (repeal and re-enactment), the power conferred by virtue of sections 135(2) and 136(3) of the M22 Medicines Act 1968 to bring into operation Schedule 6 to that Act (enactments of Parliament of United Kingdom repealed) has effect as if that Schedule included references to section 5(2) above and Schedule 1 to this Act.

(5) Any officer or servant employed by the Minister for the purpose of the execution of the enactments relating to diseases of animals who was appointed before the commencement of Part IV of the M23 Agriculture Act 1937 (1st April 1938) shall be deemed to have been appointed under section 5 of the M24 Board of Agriculture Act 1889.

(6) Nothing in this Act affects sections 40(2) and 42(2) of the M25 Northern Ireland Constitution Act 1973 as those subsections have effect in relation to section 88 of the M26 Diseases of Animals Act 1950.

(7) In so far as any provision of—

(a) paragraph (a) of section 35(4) above,

(b) paragraph (a)(ii) of section 41(1) above,

(c) paragraph (c) of section 75(1) above, and

(d) section 89(1) above,

specifies an amount expressed in metric units which is derived from the exercise of the power to make regulations under section 7 of the M27 Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 that provision may be varied as if it were contained in regulations so made.

Marginal Citations

M18 1950 c. 36.

M19 1975 c. 40.

M20 1911 c. 11.

M21 1978 c. 30.

M22 1968 c. 67.

M23 1937 c. 70.

M24 1889 c. 30.

M25 1973 c. 36.

M26 1950 c. 36.

M27 1976 c. 55.

96 Consequential amendments and repeals. X1 E+W+S

(1) The enactments specified in Schedule 5 to this Act have effect subject to the amendments specified in that Schedule being amendments consequential on the provisions of this Act.

(2) The enactments specified in Schedule 6 to this Act (which include certain obsolete or unnecessary enactments) are repealed to the extent specified in the third column of that Schedule.

Editorial Information

X1 The text of s. 96 and Schedule 6 is in the form in which it was originally enacted: it was not reproduced in Statutes in Force and does not reflect any amendments or repeals which may have been made prior to 1.2.1991.

97 Short title, extent, and commencement. E+W+S

(1) This Act may be cited as the Animal Health Act 1981.

(2) Sections 93 and 95(6) above apply to Northern Ireland, and Schedule 6 to this Act, so far as it repeals provisions of the M28 Diseases of Animals Act 1950 which applied to Northern Ireland, but apart from those provisions this Act does not extend to Northern Ireland.

(3) This Act shall come into force on the expiry of the period of one month beginning on the date of its passing.

Marginal Citations

M28 1950 c. 36.