Army goat is 'hazard' at assembly

Shenkin meets the Japanese Emperor and Empress

The best-known member of the Royal Regiment of Wales has been refused hospitality from the Welsh Assembly because he is considered a health and safety hazard.

Shenkin the goat did not set off the security scanner when he visited the Cardiff Bay building as the regiment's mascot for an official function.

He has been down to the assembly before - it was his second visit - more than most citizens of Cardiff

David Davies AM

But staff at the reception refused to serve a buffet for the other guests at the event until he was removed from the premises.

It is the first diplomatic incident in Shenkin's career welcoming state dignitaries to Wales and travelling the world on behalf of the Welsh regiment.

Shenkin's tireless efforts have seen him introduced to the Prince of Wales, the Queen and even the Emperor of Japan on behalf of the regiment.

The breakdown in protocol has been condemned by a Tory AM who said Shenkin had an important role promoting the army at a time of international tension.

Monmouth AM Conservative David Davies said he was angered at the Royal Windsor White goat being treated as a second-class celebrity at a venue which catered for more political animals.

"It's got my goat up," he said.

David Davies AM: Shenkin is promoting army's good work

"It's discrimination against ruminants - he is being treated as a second-class celebrity in his own country.

"All sorts of celebrities have come down the assembly before, Charlotte Church, the Prime Minister, the Queen, they all get treated very well.

"Yet when the most famous member of the Royal Regiment of Wales comes down, he's not treated well at all, in fact, he was asked to leave.

"I think the assembly should change its standing orders - given the importance of the armed services at this time - and he should be allowed in for a carrot sandwich or whatever.

"He has been down to the assembly before - it was his second visit - more than most citizens of Cardiff."

Carpet

Mr Davies denied he was indulging in political correctness gone mad and said there was a more serious side to Shenkin's official visit.

"I think we've had all sorts of groups and organisations in the Assembly's milling area.

"I don't think a well-trained goat, with his handler, popping in now and then to publicise the good work of the army is going to cause too much trouble.

"The organisers at the assembly should live a little."

But a spokeswoman for the assembly said Shenkin had breached protocol by disgracing himself on the carpet where the other guests were waiting for their food.

"We were not told in advance that Shenkin was on the guest list and he made a bit of mess of the carpet.

"For the future, it would be helpful if people would let us know if they have a guest who has special requirements."