§ 25. Sir B. Jannerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of the case of 457 sheep, purchased in Carlisle by a Dutch dealer, and conveyed from there by road to Dover, after which the transport of these animals from Dover to Paris took 54½ hours, five of the sheep being found dead on arrival; and whether he will consider making an order to prevent suffering to sheep exported from this country on similar lines to the Exported Cattle Protection Order, 1957.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsThis consignment has been brought to my notice. I will examine the suggestion made in the last part of the question and will let the hon. Member know my views.
§ Sir B. JannerIs the hon. Gentleman aware that, but for the fact that the sheep arrived in such a shocking condition in Paris as a result of their experience on the way, they would have been sent on to Nimes and Toulon? Will he assure the House that he will take immediate action on this matter, which is terribly important?
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsI assure the hon. Gentleman that I will look fully into the circumstances of this case.
§ Mr. R. W. ElliottThis is a deplorable case. It is a very long way from Carlisle to Dover, and for animals to have to undergo a journey lasting 54½ hours represents frightful cruelty. Will my hon. Friend take due note of the possibility of some amendment to the Exported Cattle Protection Order so as to include other animals besides those named in it?
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsThe Animals (Sea Transport) Order, 1930, covers transport arrangements of all animals leaving this country, but I will look at the point raised by In) hon. Friend.