BEF Brexit update

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has been preparing for when the UK leaves the European Union on March 29 2019. 

Although the conditions of the UK’s departure are not yet clear the BEF has been working closely with the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) as well as vets and other leaders in the equine industry to make sure horse owners are well informed of the preparations they need to make in the event of the UK leaving with No Deal. 

The chief concern for owners will be transportation as there will be significant changes to the way that equines are moved to the EU from the UK. 

Owners should take steps to prepare for a potential No Deal and should consult a vet at least six weeks before they intend to transport their equine as blood tests will be required to prove the absence of certain diseases.

There will also be changes to the documentation required for an equine to travel from the UK to the EU.

The BEF and DEFRA have compiled a FAQ on what action owners need to take. This can be found on the BEF website under Brexit.

As the conditions under which the UK leaves the EU become clearer, the BEF will continue to work closely with government and provide the most up-to-date information to owners.