Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to his contributions of 13 December 2012, Official Report, column 529, on live animal exports, what his policy is on a zero tolerance enforcement of animal welfare provisions; and if he will make a statement.
[135859]
Answer
Where there is a significant risk of animals being transported in breach of the strict EU rules on the protection of animals during transport, I will ensure that inspection rates are increased to reflect this risk. This is why 100% of livestock consignments exported for slaughter from, Ramsgate are now inspected by the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency at the point of loading.
I also made it clear in my speech during the debate on live animal exports (see column 532) that this Government will not tolerate the use of sub-standard or faulty vehicles when used to transport animals.