§ Mr. Deakinsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what representations he has received from animal welfare societies and organisations about conditions in the United Kingdom lirages for livestock awaiting shipment to the European Economic Community; and what replies he has sent;
(2) if he is satisfied with the lairage conditions at or near United Kingdom ports for all livestock awaiting shipment to Common Market countries; and if he will make a statement;
(3) what checks at what intervals are made by his officials on United Kingdom lairages holding livestock awaiting shipment to the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. Peter MillsThe Dartmoor Livestock Protection Society has submitted a report on lairage facilities in the Dover area, and my right hon. Friend has discussed it with them. I have visited premises in and around Dover, including two lairages and I am satisfied that in general the arrangements for safeguarding welfare are acceptable.
Veterinary staff inspect all lairages annually and there are other frequent checks when livestock are examined before export. Local authority inspectors visit lairages as part of their enforcement duties under the legislation. The Department's veterinary officers have been keeping a particularly close watch on export of livestock from Dover, with the full co-operation of the local authorities.