HC Deb 15 October 1990 vol 177 cc751-2W
Mr. Michael

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what diplomatic representations have been made in respect of the burning of live animals in transit in France from the United Kingdom; and what responses he has received.

Mr. Garel-Jones

Both my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs have taken this up with our French counterparts. The French authorities have condemned the use of violence, initiated legal proceedings and are taking necessary police action. They have also undertaken to secure compensation.

Mr. Michael

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what investigations the Embassy in Paris has instigated into the burning of live animals from the United Kingdom while in transit in France; and what information he now has available.

Mr. Garel-Jones

Her Majesty's embassy in Paris had repeatedly made clear the concern of the British authorities about all recent incidents affecting British exporters and hauliers. It will remain in the closest touch with the French authorities.

Mr. Michael

To ask the Minister of Agirculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what investigations he has instigated into the burning of live animals from the United Kingdom while in transit in France; and what information he now has available;

(2) what representations he has made in respect of the burning of live animals in transit in France from the United Kingdom; and what response he has received.

Mr. Curry

My colleagues and I have made it clear to the French Government that we thoroughly deplore all recent incidents in France involving attacks on imported lamb, beef and live sheep.

I have also raised the matter in the Council of Agriculture Ministers. The incident involving the burning of live animals was particularly abhorrent. The French Government, who are responsible for investigating these incidents, have emphasised their determination to maintain law and order, to take action against those concerned, and to compensate for damages sustained. I understand that a number of people have been charged in respect of the incident involving the burning of live sheep at Thouars.

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