THE EARL OF SELKIRKMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they propose to ratify the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport.]
EARL ST. ALDWYNMy Lords, it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to ratify the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport. Before they can do so, however, a number of legal and administrative problems have to be solved and legislation will be required.
THE EARL OF SELKIRKMy Lords, may I thank the noble Earl for his Answer? May I ask whether he is aware that if this subject is not dealt with in the Queen's Speech next year he may expect Notice of Motion?
EARL ST. ALDWYNMy Lords, whether it will be in the Queen's Speech or not is not for me to forecast at the moment. I am afraid it will not be possible to ratify it during the present Session, but I have every hope that it may be possible in the next one.
THE EARL OF MANSFIELDMy Lords, arising out of the original reply, may I ask whether Her Majesty's Government are aware that this traffic, both by sea and air, is producing a large amount of cruelty, unnecessary suffering and deaths among birds and animals? Do they realise that this is a most urgent problem?
EARL ST. ALDWYNMy Lords, yes, they certainly realise that it is a most urgent problem, and every speed possible is being made.