FIONA QUESTIONS CARE OF HORSES

Fiona Hall has raised concerns that some EU member states may be allowing regulations concerning the welfare of horses during transportation to be breached.

Fiona Hall said:

“In 2005 an EU Regulation came into force concerning the protection of animals during transport. I have recently received letters bringing to my attention potential breaches of this regulation within EU members states concerning the transporting of horses for slaughter.

“In particular, people are concerned that partitions are not being used in lorries; that lorries are being over crowded; and that there is a lack of provision of food, water and rest during long journeys. I am also concerned that in some cases lorries transporting horses have continued travelling for more than 24 hours without stopping.

“I have tabled a written question to the European Commission asking whether it is aware of any breaches and what action it intends to take against any member state found to be in breach of the law.”