New parliament proposal part of plans to keep horses safe on roads

An MP has presented a bill that will help keep equestrian road safety on the national agenda

- By ELEANOR JONES

A NEW proposal to parliament to improve equestrian road safety is part of an ongoing campaign to keep the issue on the Government's agenda.

Newbury MP Lee Dillon introduced his presentation bill on 15 September. It would set out speed and distance rules for passing horses, make equestrian road safety part of the driving theory test and ensure awareness of horses is taught in driver education.

Mr Dillon introduced an early day motion (EDM) on the same topic (news, 19 June), and he told H&H this is part of his campaign, prompted by the death of racehorse Knockalla on the roads in his constituency last year. He then supported the British Horse Society (BHS) and Project EDWARD (Every Day Without a Road Death) on their awareness ride from Lambourn to Windsor last year (news, 22 May).

“Horses and riders are part of the fabric of life here in West Berkshire, but too often our roads are unsafe for them,” he said. “I’ve heard from riders, trainers and equestrian groups that education and consistency are key. Too many drivers don’t know the rules – and that lack of awareness is costing lives.”