The new regulations comes into effect on January 5th 2007 and are  intended to improve the welfare of animals during transport. They will apply to anyone moving live vertebrate animals as part of their business.

Two types of authorisation will be issued, one for short journeys (over 65km and up to eight hours) and one for long journeys including those of eight hours and over.

Farmers moving their own animals in their own vehicles under 50km from their holdings will be exempt, as will anyone transporting animals for veterinary treatment or for purposes not  connected with an economic activity Transporting pets, hobby animals or single animals will also not require authorisation.

The transport authorisations, which will be issued by the State Veterinary Service, are currently free and last for five years.

Full details of how to apply are at:http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/welfare/farmed/transport/eu-transportreg.htm