25.Section 6 of the Act (inserting section 8A into the 1981 Act) allows Scottish Ministers to make an order that would make provisions for the licensing of gatherings of animals or birds (or both) (referred to as “animal gatherings”) with a view to the prevention of the spread of disease. The meaning of an animal gathering is defined in subsections (3) and (4).
26.Subsections (5) and (6) set out some of the provisions which the Scottish Ministers may include in an order made under section 8A. Subsection (7) clarifies that the conditions which may be imposed on the granting or renewal of a licence include those relating to measures for the prevention of the spread of disease. The Scottish Ministers are required to consult certain interested persons before making an order under subsection (1) of section 8A. Subsection (8) provides that contravention of the conditions of a licence is an offence. Other offences as to licences are provided by sections 67 to 71 of the 1981 Act.