HC Deb 18 April 1985 vol 77 c233W
34. Mr. Jackson

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to implement new proposals from the Farm Animal Welfare Council to tighten up existing codes.

Mrs. Fenner

The Farm Animal Welfare Council is consulting interests about possible recommendations for new regulations based on the welfare codes. The council has not, however, submitted recommedations to Ministers. When it does, the Government will of course consider them carefully and consult interests. Any new regulations then proposed would be laid before Parliament for debate.

Sir Peter Mills

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will, as a matter of urgency, introduce new measures to safeguard the transportation of live animals when they are exported.

Mrs. Fenner

There is no need for such measures. There is already extensive legislation to protect the welfare of animals for export, which implements requirements laid down in Community directives.

Mr. Greenway

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the transport of horses and ponies to and from markets.

Mrs. Fenner

The welfare of horses and ponies in transit is protected by existing legislation, which is enforced by local authorities.