HC Deb 17 March 1995 vol 256 cc765-6W
Mr. Llwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he or his officials last met the National Farmers Union in Wales to discuss the issue of the live export of sheep to continental Europe; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gwilym Jones

I met representatives of the National Farmers Union (Wales) on 24 January 1995.

Mr. Llwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he or his officials last met the Farmers Union of Wales to discuss the issue of the live export of sheep to continental Europe; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gwilym Jones

I met representatives of the Farmers Union of Wales on 24 January 1995.

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what steps he is taking to ensure that lambs exported from Wales in line with the minimum standards for the road and sea transportation of such animals reach their destinations without hindrance.

Mr. Gwilym Jones

Progress on the question of the transport of live animals will best be achieved by reaching an agreement throughout the European Community which would allow the trade to operate on a basis acceptable to all. The United Kingdom continues to press for progress at the Council of Agriculture Ministers. Although agreement on transport requirements was not possible at the February meeting of the Council, the presidency has confirmed that it will be taking discussions forward. In the meantime, there are signs that public awareness on animal welfare issues is growing in other parts of Europe, and that the prospects for progress at the European Community level are more encouraging; we shall be working hard to maintain the momentum we have achieved.