Stock mistreated at markets

19 June 2000



Stock ‘mistreated’ at markets

FARMERS and dealers routinely mistreat and abuse animals at livestock markets, claims a new report.

Animals are kicked and beaten with shovels and electric goads, and the plight of sick and injured livestock is ignored, says animal rights group Animal Aid.

The campaigners say they have video evidence of the abuse which will be shown on Channel 4 News on Monday (19 June).

Strict animal welfare rules at livestock markets were introduced two years ago, reports The Independent.

Animal Aid says the code has not been taken seriously, as the government thinks animal welfare is peripheral and sentimental.

The Ministry of Agriculture and the National Farmers Union say nearly all farmers care properly for their stock.

• Government to review animal welfare rules, FWi, 20 August, 1998
• The Independent 19/06/2000 page 4