§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the measures(a) available and (b) used to protect the lawful export trade in live sheep; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacleanThe Government keep the public order legislation under review to ensure that the right balance of measure is available to the police and prosecuting authorities. I am satisfied that no additional powers are needed at this time.
The policing of demonstrations, including those against live animal exports, are operational matters for the chief officers of police concerned. They are not matters in which Government Ministers can intervene. I am satisfied that chief officers are taking all reasonable steps to ensure that those concerned with the carrying of live sheep and other animals to their point of departure can go about their lawful activities without obstruction.