Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what plans the Government has to amend the regulation of the export of live animals for slaughter and the labelling of consignments as for fattening, in the event that the UK leaves the EU (a) with a deal and (b) without a deal.

Our manifesto made it clear that we would take early steps to control the export of live farm animals for slaughter once we leave the European Union (EU). Last year we launched a Call for Evidence on controlling live exports for slaughter and improving the welfare of all animals during transport. We passed this evidence to the Farm Animal Welfare Committee (FAWC), who recently submitted their advice to Defra and the Devolved Administrations including in relation to live exports. We are considering FAWC’s recommendations and expect to come forward with proposals for public consultation to improve animal welfare in transport in due course. We intend to strengthen welfare in transport regulation whether we leave the EU with a deal or without a deal.

As we move towards a new relationship with Europe and the rest of the world, we have a unique opportunity to shape future animal welfare policy in the UK to ensure the highest standards in every area.