The Abbott Government's decision to scrap Labor's Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for new live-export markets is a backward step for both the sector and animal welfare
Last year I announced that the Labor Government would not open any new markets unless an MoU is signed with the importing country.
MoUs ensure Australia has agreement with the importing country about how animals are treated in situations where the matter is outside Australia's influence or control.
They also allow us to help our trading partners develop and maintain better post-arrival practices.
This follows the Abbott Government's decision not to proceed with the former government's decision to appoint an Inspector General for Animal Welfare and Live Animal Exports.
The MoUs and the Inspector General built on Labor's Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System and helped to ensure Australia has the best animal welfare system in the world.
Labor strongly supports the industry and believes that maintaining public support is critical for its sustainability.
That's why the Abbott Government's decisions are bad for animal welfare and the industry alike.
FRIDAY, 28 FEBRUARY 2014
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