Published 07/08/2013

Compassion in World Farming is holding a peaceful march against the live export of farm animals, in London on the 10th of August, to highlight this largely hidden trade. Join us in calling on the government to take action to allow UK ports to refuse to accept live exports.

Philip Lymbery CEO of Compassion in World Farming says: "By marching through London, our supporters are sending a clear message to David Heath MP that we are demanding action to be taken to end live exports for good."

The UK government continues to use European legislation as an excuse not to stop live exports. An outdated 160 year-old UK law, the Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act 1847, means that public ports in Britain cannot refuse live animals for export, as all ports must allow the free trade of "goods". UK law should reflect that animals have been recognised as sentient beings under EU law since 1999. A different set of rules and regulations should apply to sentient creatures.

The UK Farming Minister, David Heath MP has the power to amend the 1847 Act and in doing so improve the welfare of thousands of animals by preventing their travel to the continent. Amending the Act would not break EU law and would give UK ports the power to refuse live exports. Ultimately, giving local authorities the power to refuse live exports could end the trade.

We need all the support we can get to draw attention to this issue so please sign up to come along!

For all of the details and to sign up to the march please visit our sign up page >>