NSA vows to defend legitimate activity ahead of planned consultation on live export ban

5th February 2018

Following the announcement last week that the Government will consult this spring on potentially banning the live export of farm animals, the National Sheep Association (NSA) has pledged to robustly defend what is a legitimate and important activity for the UK sheep sector.

Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “NSA remains opposed to any ban on live exports. We cannot see how it could operate, as it would go against all government policy on trade between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The suggestion that movements across water should be banned, rather than all live exports, is similarly illogical as sea transit causes no welfare problems and ending it would decimate essential UK trade and devastate many island communities.

“A far more intelligent solution, and one that NSA would like to see more thorough exploration of, is the proposed industry assurance scheme for live export routes.”

Notes to editors: -

  • For more information contact Hannah Park, NSA Communications Officer, on 01684 892661 or hannah@nationalsheep.org.uk.
  • The National Sheep Association is an organisation that represents the views and interests of sheep producers throughout the UK. It is funded by its membership of sheep farmers and its activities involve it in every aspect of the sheep industry. More at www.nationalsheep.org.uk and www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk