asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking to safeguard the welfare of animals in markets.

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and I have made the Markets (Protection of Animals) (Amendment) Order 1965. It is being published today. The Order requires covered accommodation to be provided in markets for dairy cows in milk, calves and pigs. The accommodation must be approved in each case by me or my right hon. Friend, and unless circumstances warrant an extension of time it must be provided by 1st July, 1966. Approval can be revoked at any time, and there is provision for market authorities aggrieved by proposed refusal or revocation of approval to make representations before a decision is taken. The interests concerned have been consulted and have supported the proposals. My right hon. Friend and I propose also to issue a more general guide on the protection of animals in markets. Copies will be available in the Library.