§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what assessment he has made of Article 9(5) of Regulation 338/97/EC in relation to primates' journey times; [47337]
(2) for what reasons his Department does not impose maximum journey times for non-human primates. [47323]
§ Mr. MorleyIn relation to animals, Article 9(5) of Regulation 338/97/EC requires that Community rules on protection of animals in transport are complied with. These rules, implemented in Great Britain by the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997, do not set maximum journey times for animals other than farm animals and horses. However, no animal may be transported in a way that causes or could cause injury or unnecessary suffering. Strict rules cover the construction, maintenance and use of the receptacles and means of transport used. For example, receptacles in which primates are transported must provide adequate space for the animals to stand in their natural position; be constructed and maintained in such a way as to prevent the animals from suffering undue exposure to noise and vibration and must provide adequate ventilation and air space.