§ Mr. S. C. Silkinasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when Her Majesty's Government expect to ratify the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartI have been asked to reply.
This Convention cannot be ratified without additional enabling powers and new and revised subordinate legislation for a wide variety of animals and birds. The enabling powers are being sought in the Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill which was introduced in another place on 3rd November, and proposals for subordinate legislation are being prepared. I cannot yet say when this will be completed.