Call for end to live exports

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AN ANIMAL rights charity has renewed calls for the EU to stop subsidising live cattle exports to the Middle East, effectively killing the trade.

Compassion in World Farming claims that up to €60m (£41m) a year is spent on export refunds for cattle sent to countries like Lebanon, where they suffer “extensive abuse”.

As many as 200,000 live cattle are exported each year, mostly from Ireland, Germany and France, with dealers pocketing up to €230 (£160) per head of stock, the group says.

It has launched a “Stop the Bull Ship” campaign to highlight what it describes as “appalling welfare standards, institutionalised abuse and inhumane slaughter”.

It has gathered video footage of a shipment from Waterford in Ireland to Beirut in Lebanon.

The campaign has found backing from TV actress Joanna Lumley, and at the European parliament, from MEP Neil Parish.

“I urge my fellow Members of the European Parliament to show their support by signing my Written Declaration, which calls for an end to export refunds paid on live cattle exports,” said Mr Parish.

“The way these animals are treated would be illegal if it took place inside the European Union.

“The money would be far better spent on supporting policies of local slaughter and export on the hook instead of on the hoof.”