PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
ANIMAL WELFARE AT LIVESTOCK MARKETS (8 June 1997)

That this House is shocked by the detailed report and graphic film evidence recently published by Animal Aid on the treatment of animals at livestock markets; deplores the fact that animals have been brought to market emaciated, diseased and lame, that the casual use of sticks, boots and electric goads persists and that animals have been denied water; notes that many United Kingdom markets are antiquated and dilapidated and so cause additional stress to animals auctioned through them; and urges the Government to establish a thorough, open investigation of all United Kingdom markets by an independent body, with those markets which are unable to meet a standard consistent with the current welfare requirements being required to upgrade or close, the said investigation also to explore how best to encourage other sales methods and how to introduce adequate training for all those handling animals at market.

Sponsored by:
Jackie Ballard (Liberal Democrat)