Holyrood won’t commit to backing ban on live exports
While not opposing the possibility that there might be a future ban on exporting live animals from this country, the Scottish Government yesterday made it clear that any moves by Westminster in this direction would not automatically be followed in Scotland.
The issue was kicked off by UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove who called for evidence for a potential ban on the live export of animals for slaughter after Brexit.
He claimed this potential action on live animal exports formed part of the government’s programme of reforms to “cement its position as a global leader in animal welfare as we leave the EU and deliver a Green Brexit.”
“All animals deserve to get the respect and care they deserve at every stage of their lives.
“This call for evidence begins to deliver on our manifesto commitment which aims to control the export of live animals for slaughter once we leave the European Union.
“With all options being considered, I am keen to hear from industry, the devolved authorities and charities on all possible options and evidence on this vital issue.”
The latest figures show the live export trade to be limited with only about four thousand sheep being transported annually from a port on the south coast of England to continental Europe for slaughter.
A Scottish Government spokesperson confirmed there were no live animals being exported from Scotland, other than to Ireland for slaughter.
The spokesperson added, “The Scottish Government supports Defra undertaking a consultation on specific proposals regarding the export of live animals for slaughter to continental Europe.
“We have though made it clear that any proposals which could create further challenges or difficulties for our farming sector, or put Scottish agriculture at a disadvantage, will not be agreed to by Scottish ministers.
“Thetransportofanimals from Scotland is strictly controlled, according to EU rules and standards, to ensure the best possible welfare during journeys. The Scottish Government has always supported the principle that ideally animals should be slaughtered as close to their farms of origin as practical.”
Concurrently with the live export consultation, Gove announced they would also look at higher welfare standards for live animal movements. This is being complemented by research commissioned by Defra from Scotland’s Rural College and the University of Edinburgh.