A new Bill has been introduced into Parliament which ends the export of livestock for slaughter and fattening.The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill will ban live animal exports of horses and others, including cattle, sheep, and pigs, for slaughter and fattening from Great Britain.
This marks a significant milestone in the almost 100-year history of World Horse Welfare. Roly Owers, Chief Executive of the charity said they were “delighted” that the government has introduced the Bill.
“We know horses are being exported for slaughter ‘under the radar’ despite none being officially declared for this purpose,” he said. “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.”
The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill legislation follows a 2020 consultation, in which World Horse Welfare took part, on ending live animal exports in which 87% of respondents agreed that livestock, which includes horses, should not be exported for slaughter and fattening.
Live exports in other specific circumstances, for example, for breeding and competitions, will still be allowed provided animals are transported in line with legal requirements aimed at protecting their welfare.
In the EU, the charity continues its campaign to stop the long-distance transport of horses to slaughter.
“World Horse Welfare thanks everyone who has taken part in their campaigns to urge the UK Government to act on this issue and is calling on animal lovers to email their local MP and ask them to ensure smooth passage of this Bill through the House of Commons,” added Roly.
