Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill amends the Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act 1847, granting local authorities in England and Wales the power to regulate or ban the transport of live animals for slaughter abroad through facilities they control.

Description

The bill adds a new section (33A) to the 1847 Act. This allows local authorities to control the shipping and unshipping of live animals (excluding domestic pets) at their harbours, docks, and piers. They can impose restrictions, requirements, and fees, potentially including a complete ban on the transport of live animals for slaughter abroad. These measures can vary depending on the animal's species, type, and age. The local authority may also require animals to be fattened for a set period after unshipping.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact government spending. The costs associated with implementing the new regulations would likely fall on local authorities, potentially affecting their budgets. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Gain new powers to regulate live animal transport, potentially incurring costs associated with enforcement and administration.
• Live Animal Exporters: May face restrictions or bans on exporting live animals for slaughter, impacting their business.
• Animal Welfare Groups: Could see improved animal welfare if the bill leads to reduced live animal exports.
• Farmers: May be affected depending on their involvement in the live animal export trade.