CHANNEL 4 PROGRAMME - INSIDE QUARANTINE

Early day motion 1305, tabled 11 May 1998 by Paul Flynn (Labour). Signed by 143 members.

That this House is appalled by the footage taken at Rutland Quarantine Kennels and Dover and Folkestone Quarantine Kennels which was shown on Channel 4's Undercover Britain programme on Tuesday 5th May; notes that animals were kept in wet, cramped conditions and lacked dry bedding and adequate heating; further notes that welfare and security standards in the two kennels fell below acceptable standards; is concerned at the lack of care and attention shown by the veterinary surgeon and kennel staff; urges the Government to launch a full inquiry into the evidence collected by the programme and to revoke the licences of the kennels until the inquiry has been completed; agrees with the comments of the quarantine kennel owners and vets featured who said that quarantine is now unnecessary and that vaccinating animals against disease would prove more effective; and urges the Government, which is currently reviewing the system, to reform the existing quarantine laws as soon as possible to introduce a safe, effective, humane alternative.

Signatures by party: Labour 96, Liberal Democrat 27, Conservative 10, Labour/Co-operative 4, Plaid Cymru 2, Scottish National Party 1, UUP 1, Unknown 1.