§ Dr. GibsonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to carry out an economic analysis of the movement of livestock around the United Kingdom. [155615]
§ Ms QuinThe Ministry has no immediate plans to carry out such analysis but will keep the matter under review. However, taking account of what we have learned from the current foot and mouth outbreak, the Government are consulting on proposals to introduce a 20 day standstill period for cattle, sheep and goats. Officials will be meeting with industry to discuss the implications of the proposals.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make it his policy to take steps to reduce the length of animal movements by securing an increase nationally in the number of abattoirs. [159597]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 30 April 2001]: Despite the reduction in abattoir numbers over recent years there remains a spread of abattoirs across the country. However, where animals do have to travel, such journeys must comply with the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997 which sets out in some detail a variety of measures designed to protect animals, including maximum journey times, vehicle standards, transporter competence, etc. These rules are, of course, rigorously enforced.