Article 9 of the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997, which came into force on 1 July 1997, requires that vertebrate animals transported more than 50km must be accompanied by at least one attendant possessing appropriate knowledge and ability to care for them. This attendant must have received specific training, or have equivalent practical experience. The rules are to be tightened further. From 1 July 1998, anyone who transports cattle, pigs, sheep, goats or horses on road journeys of 8h or more, or on any rail, air or sea journey, will be required to entrust the care of the animals to staff who have demonstrated that they are qualified to manage them and safeguard their welfare. This may be demonstrated by possession of a qualification approved by MAFF, or through assessment of practical experience either by an independent assessor from a body recognized by MAFF, or by the employer. Self-employed people may, at this stage, assess and certify themselves. Consideration is being given to making it a requirement that all staff taken on after 1 July 2000 be assessed by independent assessors.