§ Mr. ProsserTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will introduce legislation requiring the master of a vessel carrying live farm animals to submit a written return on animals(a) injured and (b) dying during the voyage; and if he will make a statement.[77948]
§ Mr. MorleyI have no plans to introduce such a requirement, which would seem to be of minimal value in relation to roll-on/roll-off vessels. On the other hand, a requirement on these lines may be worthy of consideration when negotiations start on the proposals for detailed rules on specialist livestock vessels which the EU Commission is currently drawing up.
§ Mr. ProsserTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what criteria he applies in deciding whether to use his powers under the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997 to prevent a vessel carrying live farm animals from sailing in adverse weather conditions; and if he will make a statement.[77947]
§ Mr. MorleyThese powers are granted by WATO 1997 to Inspectors appointed as such by the Minister or by the local authority. MAFF Inspectors have comprehensive guidance covering the use of these powers in relation to rough weather sailings. I am placing a copy in the Library.
§ Mr. ProsserTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for what reasons the 'Cap Afrique' was allowed to sail in adverse weather conditions with live farm animals on board on 3 March; and if he will make a statement.[77945]
§ Mr. MorleyI presume my hon. Friend is referring to the voyage by the 'Cap Afrique' on 2 March. In the light of prevailing conditions, and after discussion with the master of the vessel, MAFF inspectors at the quayside were of the view that they did not have grounds for serving a notice prohibiting transport under Article 18 of the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997. A MAFF veterinarian accompanied the animals on the voyage and concluded that the animals were transported in compliance with the 1997 Order. I am placing a report in the Library.