§ Mr. George Robertsonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has received representations from the abattoir industry regarding the export of live animals for slaughter.
§ Mr. StrangYes. The National Association of British Market Authorities gave written evidence to the recent inquiry into the trade. Written and oral representations were also received from the National Council of Associations of Fresh Meat Wholesalers, on behalf of the Association of British Abattoir Owners Ltd., Federation of Fresh Meat Wholesalers, National Association of Wholesale Meat Salesmen of Scotland and Smithfield Market Fresh Meat Traders' Association.
§ Mr. George Robertsonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is his estimate of future unemployment if the export of live animals for slaughter continues and grows.
§ Mr. StrangThe economic implications of the live export trade, including the possible effect on employment, were considered in detail during the recent departmental inquiry into the trade. There is no automatic link between given levels of live exports and unemployment, the future level of which will depend on other facors affecting the national economy.152W Nevertheless, the Government will take account of all factors, including economic implications, in reaching a view about the future of the trade.