Inspections took place throughout Britain, and in Northern Ireland, Germany and Canada. As we type, Foot and Mouth Disease has not reached Exmoor itself. Livestock have to be removed in winter from ESAs to prevent over-grazing damaging the natural habitat.
Exmoor ponies remain out throughout the year.
Due to the livestock movement restrictions introduced as part of national Foot and Mouth Disease emergency measures, the sheep and cattle cannot be returned to these areas at present. Other free grazing areas on Exmoor are not within this scheme and so do have sheep and cattle on them as well as ponies. Ponies cannot contract Foot and Mouth Disease. MAFF has issued guarantees that even if Foot and Mouth Disease does reach Exmoor then no Exmoor ponies will be slaughtered. Programme for 2001 is under continual revision as a result of Foot and Mouth Disease and some shows WILL be cancelled.