Madam President, as a new Member of this House, it seems highly appropriate for me to make my maiden speech on the issue which arouses more concern than any other in my constituency of Devon and East Plymouth. When I signed the original motion I was encouraged that Members from other countries in my group were quick to support it and I welcome the widespread recognition in this House of the importance attached to animal welfare, particularly in Britain.

Livestock farmers form a very important part of the rural economy of Devon. But I also have many more constituents who feel very strongly that the live export of animals across the channel to the continent should be banned immediately and completely. One lady in Torquay got up a petition in her neighbourhood with over 500 signatures which I presented to the Minister of Agriculture on her behalf. In response to public pressure three ferry companies, including Brittany Ferries which operates from Plymouth, have banned live transport on their vessels. I fear this may be counter-productive enforcing transporters to use less suitable ships on longer routes with worse conditions for animals. Many farmers would also like to see this traffic ended by having animals slaughtered as close to the farm as possible. This might reverse the decline in slaughterhouses in Britain but most people see this as a European problem requiring European solutions. I am tired of Europe being blamed for things it has not done. Let us se

e it gain credit for action. I urge the Commission to act with urgency and show my constituents back home that Europe means business. I support the motion.