Action taken to curb ragwort problem (From Gazette & Herald)

Action taken to curb ragwort problem

FOLLOWING the lead of Ryedale MP John Greenway, the Government has launched a code of conduct to control the potentially deadly ragwort weed.

"The draft code provides clear guidance for all landowners and occupiers, including local authorities and statutory organisations, such as rail and waterways authorities on best practice in controlling ragwort," said rural affairs minister Alun Michael.

He expressed thanks to the British Horse Society for helping to draft a ragwort control bill and added: "I am also grateful to John Greenway MP who introduced the ragwort control bill as a private member's bill, for his co-operation with me and the BHS to achieve an effective piece of legislation."

If eaten, ragwort causes long-term cumulative liver damage in livestock and other animals and can be potentially fatal.

The effects are usually seen in horses since most livestock is slaughtered before the cumulative effects become noticeable.

Some estimates put the death toll among horses at 500 a year but new research from the BHS suggests the figure is much higher, possibly up to 6,500 a year.

The bill would enable the code to be used as evidence in enforcement under the Weeds Act. Under the act, the secretary of state may serve a notice on an occupier of land where noxious weeds grow to require action to prevent the spread of weeds.

It is an offence under the act for the occupier to fail to comply.

The bill has had its third reading in the House of Commons and is expected to get its second reading in the House of Lords after the summer recess.

Updated: 10:52 Wednesday, July 30, 2003