In a significant parliamentary discussion, 33 MPs from across the political spectrum addressed the urgent need for improved road safety for horses and riders. The debate, secured by Newbury MP Lee Dillon, highlighted tragic incidents involving horses like Knockalla, Blaze, Angel, and Loki. It underscored a decade of advocacy by the British Horse Society's Dead Slow campaign.
The British Horse Society (BHS) launched its Dead Slow campaign nearly 10 years ago to tackle equestrian road safety, an effort led by director Alan Hiscox. Describing himself as a "terrier" on the issue, Hiscox has persistently engaged MPs, riders, police, councils, and driver training organizations to drive change.
Last week, the campaign's impact was evident in a Westminster Hall debate, where MPs shared constituents' stories of roadside tragedies. The session, initiated by Lee Dillon following the death of racehorse Knockalla in his constituency, featured bipartisan support. Dillon has submitted an early day motion and a presentation bill on the topic.
There was a tangible atmosphere in the room, not only of interest but of support," Hiscox noted, as MPs named horses like Blaze from Windsor, Angel from Essex, and Loki from Yorkshire, who suffered fatal or severe injuries due to drivers' behavior.
Hiscox's advocacy ensured equestrians were included in Highway Code updates and organized an awareness ride from Newbury to Windsor with Project EDWARD, which drew Dillon's involvement. The day after the debate, the issue was raised in the House of Commons, with the Speaker promising to consider a formal debate.
The BHS urges equestrians to report all incidents, including near-misses, via its website or the Horsei app, providing essential data for authorities. MPs emphasized that constituents' reports prompted their participation, reinforcing that speaking up drives action.
Hiscox stressed the need for continued momentum: "What next? It feels like change could be coming, but we've all got to keep at it."
This debate marks a pivotal moment, building on a decade of sustained effort to protect horses and riders on Britain's roads.
