Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 5th December 2023
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Bill introduced to ban live animal exports
Charities including the RSPCA, Compassion in World Farming, and World Horse Welfare are supporting the bill.
The legislation has been welcomed by animal welfare charities.

The Government introduced legislation to Parliament yesterday (4 December 2023) that will ban the export of live animals from Great Britain for slaughter and fattening. 

If passed by Parliament, the Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill will apply to cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and horses. The ban formed part of the Government’s election manifesto.

No animals have officially been exported from Great Britain for slaughter since 31 December 2020. The new law will make the pause on exports permanent.

Live exports for other purposes, such as breeding and taking part in competitions, will still be permitted.

Environment secretary Steve Barclay said: “We have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world.
 
“This bill makes use of post-Brexit freedoms to strengthen these standards by preventing the export of live animals for slaughter and fattening, which we know causes animals unnecessary stress and injury.”

The new legislation has been welcomed by animal welfare charities that have campaigned for a ban, including the RSPCA, Compassion in World Farming, and World Horse Welfare.

Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, said: "We are delighted that the Government has introduced this bill and will put its muscle behind making it law. We know horses are being exported for slaughter 'under the radar' despite none being officially declared for this purpose.

“This bill will finally make it illegal, something we have been campaigning for since our charity’s foundation. We look forward to working with Defra to ensure that the right measures are put in place to enforce this hugely significant piece of legislation.”

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.