The Labour government is under pressure to enact a major update to the Highway Code, specifically to improve safety for animals on Britain's roads. MPs are calling for explicit guidance covering horses, cats, wildlife, and other creatures following concerns over high numbers of fatal collisions.
MPs Highlight Shocking Roadkill Statistics
During a parliamentary session, Romford MP Andrew Rosindell presented stark figures to highlight the scale of the problem. He revealed that in recent years, up to 700 horses have been killed on roads, alongside an estimated 50 riders.
Rosindell, whose constituency includes the rural Essex village of Havering-atte-Bower, also pointed to the widespread issue of wildlife collisions. He stated that areas like Harold Hill and Noak Hill have significant populations of roaming deer, with national estimates suggesting up to 75,000 deer are killed on roads annually, in addition to countless hedgehogs and other animals.
Calls for Legal Changes and Stronger Guidance
The Conservative MP directly challenged the government to consider amending the Road Traffic Act 1988. He noted a legal discrepancy where some animals, like cats, do not have to be reported if hit by a vehicle, unlike dogs. "Will the minister consider amending the Road Traffic Act 1988 to include cats and other wild animals?" he asked.
In response, Labour's transport minister, Lilian Greenwood, acknowledged the serious dangers posed by drivers hitting animals, particularly on rural roads. She confirmed that the government is reviewing the issue. "We will look at what more we can do to strengthen the advice and guidance, and ensure that people are aware of those issues in the Highway Code," Greenwood stated.
Government Action on Specific Concerns
Minister Greenwood referenced recent strengthening of the Highway Code regarding horse riders, which now mandates drivers to pass them slowly, safely, and with ample space. On the specific issue of cats, she confirmed that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has initiated further research.
"I have listened carefully to many people who have raised with me their concerns about cats, and work is under way... to look at further research on that issue," the minister told MPs on January 17, 2026.
The push for change underscores a growing demand for road safety rules to reflect the protection of all vulnerable road users, both human and animal. The government's commitment to 'look at' strengthening the code suggests a potential formal consultation and update could follow in the coming months.
