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Pony and Trap Racing: Regulation
02 September 2025
Lead MP
Sarah Green
Chesham and Amersham
LD
Responding Minister
Lilian Greenwood
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Word Count: 2504
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Sarah Green raised concerns about pony and trap racing: regulation in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
Sarah asks for a licensing scheme similar to those for cycle races under the Road Traffic Act 1988 to ensure proper regulation of pony and trap racing events.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The debate highlights the lack of regulation for pony and trap racing, which poses significant safety risks to drivers, pedestrians, and animals. In Sarah Green's constituency, regular racing events disrupt communities and endanger road users on busy dual carriageways like the A413, leading to multiple incidents in recent years.
Winchester
Dr Danny Chambers raises concerns about animal welfare during pony and trap races, noting injuries to horses due to immature development and excessive weight carried by the animals. He supports regulation as much for animal welfare as public safety.
James Chambers
Con
Winchester
The hon. Member for Winchester raised animal welfare concerns regarding pony and trap racing.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Jim Shannon agrees with Sarah Green, highlighting a case in Northern Ireland where a teen lost control of a sulky cart on public roads, causing serious injury. He advocates for greater discussion and guidance from the devolved nations.
Government Response
Lilian Greenwood
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the importance of road safety, noting that existing powers under current legislation are sufficient to address unlawful pony and trap racing. She stated there were no plans to regulate such events similarly to cycling races but offered to meet with the hon. Lady to review evidence on the issue.
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Assessment & feedback
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.