asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects the new rules governing the conditions under which animals are transported overseas for slaughter to be implemented.

In accordance with an undertaking already given, an order regulating the export of food animals under Section 8 of the Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 will be made within 12 months of the date on which the Act became law—15th November 1976. This order will give specific legal authority for the welfare controls currently operated under more general powers.

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will consult organisations concerned with animal welfare when considering regulations relating to the transport of livestock to overseas destinations.

Yes. It is our normal practise to do this.