HC Deb 25 October 1984 vol 65 cc802-3
13. Mr. Nicholls

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what stage he has reached in his continuing review of safeguards to protect live animals in transit.

Mrs. Fenner

Existing legislation provides substantial safeguards. We shall continue to keep these under review and will present proposals for improvements to Parliament where a real need has been identified.

Mr. Nicholls

As the regulations governing the transit of animals by air and sea have been under discussion for review since 1980, will my hon. Friend ensure that they are brought to a speedy conclusion, given that many people are very concerned about the way in which animals are treated during transit?

Mrs. Fenner

Transit legislation is under constant review. We are ready to make proposals whenever the need arises. We shall be making an order on the transport of animals by sea when we have finalised our views in the light of the many comments that we have received. If my hon Friend is nagging me to get on with it, I respond.