§ 2. Mr. David Jamesasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking to reduce the inducement to smuggle livestock into the Republic of Ireland.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr. Peter Mills)Every effort is being made to apprehend those responsible for smuggling pigs into the Republic and discussions are taking place with the Republic to try to overcome this difficult problem.
§ Mr. JamesI thank my hon. Friend for that answer. Is there any information to suggest that smuggling has increased since the House prohibited the export of animals for slaughter? Are more animals now being subjected to longer sea voyages?
§ Mr. MillsThe short answer is "No". Much depends on the animals concerned. The smuggling which takes place is mostly pig smuggling. There is legitimate trade in other livestock.
§ Mr. WintertonIs my hon. Friend satisfied with the treatment and conditions of livestock in transit between Northern Ireland and the Republic?
§ Mr. KilfedderUnder the EEC regulations, is the movement of livestock in either direction illegal?
§ Mr. MillsObviously there are EEC regulations regarding pigs. Levies have to be paid when they go into the Republic. The smuggling takes place because there are other advantages in the Republic, which means that a higher price can be paid for the pigs there than in Northern Ireland.