News

27th May 2002

John Bowis MEP: 'Londoners want more checks on the transport of animals'

John Bowis – Conservative Euro MP for London – and British Conservative Animal Welfare Spokesman has called on the European Commission to take action to stop the abuses of animals exported on the hoof. Speaking during a debate of the Parliament’s Environment Committee today he said Londoners would join him in wanting the European Union to treat this problem seriously.

Speaking from the European Parliament in Brussels John Bowis said, “Many of my constituents in London are extremely concerned about the manner in which live animals are transported across Europe. There are a number of initiatives that the EU could implement in order to improve this situation. Firstly, subsidies to export live animals - which are not applicable to exports of meat – should be ended, thereby removing a perverse incentive to the unnecessary transport of animals over long distances to non-EU countries.”

John Bowis continued, “Greater emphasis should also be placed on ensuring that effective checks on the welfare of animals being transported across Europe take place at national borders. Slovenia is one of the few countries in Europe that carries out effective checks and acts as an example of what should be adopted across Europe. The European Commission should ensure that all Member States have proper checks in place at national borders.”

“There is film evidence that some countries to which European animals are exported permit brutal practices in the transport and slaughter of animals. Exports to such countries should be on condition the animals are treated humanely. By adopting these principles, I know that many of my constituents in London will be happier knowing that the European Union is dealing with this issue, with the urgency it deserves.”