A CAMPAIGN to change a law that has increased insurance costs for equine businesses has been backed by Monmouth MP David Davies. The Country Land and Business Association is spearheaded the campaign to change the amendments to the Animals Act 1971.

The legislation was originally aimed to make the owner of a dangerous individual animal liable for any harm or damage it caused.

However, a recent House of Lords ruling means the liability now hits the owners of any perfectly normal animal that causes injury just by behaving in a way that is typical of its species.

Equine businesses have seen their insurance premiums rise by 200 percent in the past two years and even though responsible businesses are taking every possible precaution to prevent accidents happening, the owner is still liable for any damage or injury if a horse bolts after being 'spooked'.

"The equine industry is of huge importance to the rural economy in Monmouthshire and I am extremely concerned about the insurance situation," said Mr Davies.

"That is why I have signed the Early Day Motion in a bid to drive home the seriousness of this issue to the Government and I will continue to offer my full support to the CLA's campaign."