To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what research his Department has undertaken on the extent of ragwort poisoning of horses; and if he will make a statement.

DEFRA has not undertaken any specific studies on the extent of ragwort poisoning of horses. However, DEFRA's policy under the Weeds Act 1959 is to control injurious weeds where there is a threat to animal welfare or agricultural activities.

Natural England investigates complaints about ragwort on behalf of DEFRA and will take enforcement actions where there is a risk of:

Weeds spreading to land used for grazing horses and other animals;

Weeds spreading to land used for the production of conserved forage;

Weeds spreading to land used for other agricultural activities; and

The complainant has already made reasonable efforts to contact the landowner and occupier where the weeds are growing.

DEFRA's code of practice on how to prevent the spread of Ragwort was published in July 2004. DEFRA worked with the British Horse Society, rural consultancy ADAS, English Nature, Wildlife and Countryside Link and other stakeholders to draw up the code. It provides comprehensive guidance on how to develop a strategic and cost-effective approach to weed control. The code gives advice on:

Identification of Common Ragwort;

Risk assessment and priorities for Ragwort control;

Control methods their suitability and efficacy;

Environmental considerations; and

Health and safety issues.