The live export of British farm animals continues. Despite opposition from the public and many politicians, thousands of animals are leaving UK shores from the port of Dover.
UK Farming Minister, David Heath, has claimed to be "no fan" of live exports. Yet he has done nothing because apparently he believes he cannot act without breaking EU law. But he has got it wrong.
Yes, current EU legislation prevents the UK from banning live exports altogether. But David Heath could amend an outdated UK law to give local authorities more power over the trade they allow through their ports. This could still put an end to live exports and would be perfectly legal under EU law. It seems pretty clear but apparently David Heath doesn't think so.
In the simplest terms amending the 1847 Act will allow UK ports to opt to refuse live exports without breaking EU law.
WHAT IS THE 1847 ACT?
The Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act (1847) states that all ports must allow the free trade of "goods". Astonishingly live farm animals are still classified as goods. So by law British public ports must allow lorries full of animals to pass through even if the port authority does not agree with the trade. This law is over 160 years old. It is high time it is amended.
Take action now, like me, and tweet @DavidHeathMP, something like:
It's simple @DavidHeathMP - amending the 1847 Act, so that UK ports can opt to refuse live exports, will not break EU law.
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