§ Lord Northfieldasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware that EC Directive 91/628 completely prohibits the transport of deer in velvet; whether they agree that such transport can be undesirable and cruel; and what is the legal basis for allowing such transport over a distance of 50km in the Welfare of Animals During Transport Order 1992 (SI 1992/3304).
Earl HoweDirective 91/628/EEC on the protection of animals during transport prohibits the transport of deer in velvet on journeys over 50km. This prohibition is implemented in Article 3(5) of the Welfare of Animals During Transport Order 1992. The directive does not apply to journeys under 50km and member states are permitted to apply national rules for these journeys. The order permits the transport of deer in velvet on journeys up to 50km provided that special precautions are taken to protect the deer from injury and unnecessary suffering.