Bill to ban animal export for slaughter introduced to Parliament

New legislation to end the export of livestock for slaughter and fattening has been introduced into Parliament

The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill, is set to ban live animal exports of horses and others, including cattle, sheep, and pigs, for slaughter and fattening from Great Britain.

The Bill marks a significant milestone in the almost 100-year history of equine charity, World Horse Welfare. Stopping the live export to slaughter of horses was one of the founding principles of the charity since its inception in 1927. Its founder Ada Cole, was spurred into action after witnessing a procession of British work horses being unloaded and whipped for four miles to slaughter in Belgium. 

Roly Owers, Chief Executive of World Horse Welfare, said: “We are delighted that the government has introduced this Bill and will put its muscle behind making it law. We know horses are being exported for slaughter ‘under the radar’ despite none being officially declared for this purpose.

“This Bill will finally make it illegal, something we have been campaigning for since our charity’s foundation. We look forward to working with Defra to ensure that the right measures are put in place to enforce this hugely significant piece of legislation.”

World Horse Welfare thanks everyone who has taken part in their campaigns to urge the UK Government to act on this issue and is calling on animal lovers to email their local MP and ask them to ensure smooth passage of this Bill through the House of Commons HERE

The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill legislation follows a 2020 consultation on ending live animal exports, in which 87% of respondents agreed that livestock, which includes horses, should not be exported for slaughter and fattening..

Live exports in other specific circumstances, for example, for breeding and competitions, will still be allowed provided animals are transported in line with legal requirements aimed at protecting their welfare.

In the EU, the charity continues its campaign to stop the long-distance transport of horses to slaughter.