Explanatory note

This Order, which amends the Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and Other Mammals) Order 1974, has two main purposes: first, to increase the powers of the police in relation to animals in respect of which there are contraventions of the 1974 Order, and secondly, to tighten the control over animals which, although not being landed in Great Britain, are on board a vessel in a British harbour.

So far as the police are concerned, they are given the same powers as inspectors to seize and destroy animals under the 1974 Order. In certain circumstances, the police may also seize animals for the purpose of their being detained in quarantine or re-exported, provided this is done with the agreement of an inspector.

With regard to animals on board vessels in harbour, the order substitutes a new Article 12 for that appearing in the 1974 Order. Apart from some strengthening of the original provisions, the most important change brought about by the new Article is to make it illegal for animals or contact animals (within the meaning of the order) which are on shore to be permitted to go on a vessel which already has an animal from abroad on board. The prohibition does not apply to dogs used by the police, HM Customs and Excise or the Forces, or to animals or contact animals being loaded for exportation. Inspectors and the police are given wide powers to seize and deal with animals in respect of which there is a contravention of the provisions of the Article.

The Order also makes a number of minor amendments to the 1974 Order—some of which are consequential on the new provisions, whilst others are designed to clarify the existing position in certain situations.