§ Mrs. Winifred Ewingasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the number of live animals exported from Scotland in the last two years; and if he is satisfied with the precautions at present taken to prevent cruelty to them whilst in transit.
§ Mr. Hugh D. BrownNumbers of livestock exported from Scotland to countries outside the United Kingdom in 1975 and 1976 were as follows:
Cattle Sheep Goats 1975 … … 3,332 1,512 — 1976 … … 5,240 1,960 7 Pigs Horses Ponies 1975 … … — — 68 1976 … … — — 4 It is the Government's firm policy that animals may be exported only under conditions that ensure that their welfare while in transit from this country is properly safeguarded. Following some recent criticisms that particular consignments of animals exported for slaughter have not been treated in accordance with our welfare requirements, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has announced the Government's intention to carry out a close and detailed study of all aspects of this trade and to study the views of the organisations mainly concerned. The welfare of these animals will continue to be a prime objective of our policy.