Animal Cruelty (Spain)

HC Deb 09 May 1991 vol 190 cc548-9W

Mr. Parry

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Spanish Government concerning cruelty to animals; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Garel-Jones

The treatment of animals in another country is a matter for that country, except where provisions are laid down by EC legislation. However, pending confirmation that Spain has implemented the directives on the transport and slaughter of farm animals, the United Kingdom does not license the export of such animals to Spain.

Mr. Parry

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list the representations he has received concerning cruelty to animals in Spain.

Mr. Garel-Jones

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has received 11 letters this year concerning cruelty to animals in Spain. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has received many more representations.