§ Mr. EtheringtonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many pigs were included in the consignments exported on(a) 15 May and (b) 19 May; what factors led him on 16 May to issue a notice under the Welfare of Animals During Transport Order 1994 preventing the export from Dover of a consignment of pigs; what steps he plans to take to ensure regular compliance in the future with the health and welfare laws governing the export of live animals; and if he will make a statement. [1273]
§ Mr. MorleyA total of 2,919 pigs were exported on the MV Caroline on 15 May and 1,583 on 19 May. Officials delayed the 16 May consignment by serving a notice because they were not satisfied with the information given as to the destination. This is part of the Government's overall policy of applying the highest possible standards to this trade and of pressing the other Member States to do likewise.
The Government strongly prefer meat to be exported on the hook rather than on the hoof. Where animals are exported live, the public must have full confidence that the strictest possible welfare rules are being applied to this trade. We will not compromise on these standards.
A consultation letter has gone out to interested parties seeking suggestions and comments by 18 June. I have commissioned an urgent review of the arrangements for ensuring that animals are rested, fed, watered, cleared as fit and certified prior to export in accordance with the law.