Export review

Agriculture Minister David Littleproud has announced terms of reference for a ‘short, sharp’ review into sheep exports to the Middle East during the northern summer.

Minister Littleproud said the review would consider information including scientific literature, outcomes of recent voyages and reports from observers.

“The footage I saw recently from voyages in 2017 shocked me,” he said.

“After meeting with the stakeholders I announced this review.

“The review will identify any improvements in how the current standards, known as the Australian Standards for Export of Livestock or ASEL, can be administered or executed.”

He said the review would be complete in time to make any recommended changes to the 2018 northern summer trade.