Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he is making to the EU regarding the review of the EU Transport Initiative with respect to the transportation of live animals; what representations he has made to the French Government over the Eid-el-nabin festival; and if he will make a statement. [95576]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 26 October 1999]: The Commission is obliged, under the terms of Directive 91/628 on the protection of animals during transit, to bring forward a report during 1999 to enable the Council of Ministers to review the terms of the Directive. We consider it regrettable that there is as yet no sign of this happening, as we consider that the review will be an important opportunity to press for improvements to the rules in this area.
925WWe deplore the flagrant infringements of EU animal welfare rules and appalling acts of cruelty which take place when sheep are slaughtered at the annual festival outside Paris and which—commendably—have been highlighted by animal welfare organisations. We look to the French government to enforce the law and to the Commission to fulfil its responsibility to make sure that this is done.
We have pressed the Commission and the French government on both these matters, and will continue to do so until suitable action is forthcoming.