EXEMPT Preseli's wild ponies from EU rules that insist all horses are electronically tagged, says Preseli Pembrokeshire Assembly Member Paul Davies.

From 1 July, all foals must be microchipped within six months of birth or by December 31, whichever is later, to fit in with EU regulations. But putting expensive tags on semi-feral ponies is an expensive waste of time that could even lead to welfare problems says Mr Davies.

"I wholeheartedly agree with improving animal welfare but I don't think this is the right way to go about it," said Mr Davies.

"Voluntary microchipping of horses should be phased in over 10 years, unless they are going for export, and semi-feral horses and ponies should be exempt altogether."

It is feared that vets will not be able to treat animals unless they are microchipped, but paying £70 to tag a semi-wild pony only worth up to £100 is not feasible.

"We do not want a situation that could lead to animal welfare problems," added Mr Davies. "The equine industry has been lumbered with an excessive burden of bureaucracy and there is an urgent need for common sense over the system of identifying equines.