Union’s animal transport opinion

Future policy decisions surrounding the live export of farm animals for slaughter should be led by “sound science”, says NFU Scotland (NFUS).

It follows a call for evidence on live exports and animal transport by Defra in light of the UK Government’s decision to consider a ban on the practice.

NFUS livestock committee chairman, Charlie Adam, said he appreciated that live exports was an emotive issue for some.

“It is important that standards are in place to protect animal welfare during transport. Those standards must reflect the scientific evidence available, to deliver genuine benefits, and not be based purely on sentiment, delivering little benefit and damaging the livestock industry in the UK,” said Mr Adam.

“The UK Government’s ambition to be viewed as a premier trading partner post Brexit means we need to be able to demonstrate robust, evidenced welfare standards delivering confidence to UK consumers and our trading partners.

“As a premier trading partner, we should not be seeking to dismiss the ability to export high quality, high welfare livestock.”