§ Mr. DowdTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what reports he has received on the recent slaughter in Paris of sheep exported from Britain; what assessment he has made of compliance with the EU directive on the slaughter of animals; what representations he has made to the French Government in the light of the article; and if he will make a statement. [25800]
§ Mrs. BrowningThe allegations in a daily newspaper about the slaughter of sheep in Paris have been discussed with officials of the French Ministry of Agriculture. I am advised that such slaughtering elsewhere than in a slaughterhouse is illegal under French law, although the European directive on the protection of animals at slaughter permits it, subject to certain conditions. I understand that the French Government are discussing this matter with the relevant organisations and therefore, neither my right hon. Friend nor I believe that it is necessary to make representations to them on this matter.