EXPORT OF LIVE CALVES

Early day motion 2401, tabled 19 June 2006 by Gwyn Prosser (Labour). Signed by 130 members.

That this House deplores the fact that thousands of young calves have been exported to the continent to be reared for veal since the resumption of this inhumane trade in May; notes that scientific research shows that young calves are not well adapted to cope with transport; believes that calves suffer considerably during journeys to the continent whether those journeys are by road and sea or by road and air; further notes that once they reach the continent, calves can be kept on concrete or slatted floors without any straw or other bedding; further notes that such barren systems are illegal under UK legislation which requires calves to be provided with bedding; further notes that on the continent calves can be given less space and less fibrous food than is required by UK legislation; urges dairy farmers to end the export of calves; further urges the dairy and beef sectors and the Government to work together to develop welfare-friendly and economically viable uses for male dairy calves; and calls on the Government to encourage dairy farmers to end the export of live calves.

Signatures by party: Labour 90, Liberal Democrat 26, Conservative 12, Respect 1, Scottish National Party 1.