We believe:

• live transportation must be kept to a minimum
   
• animals should be slaughtered close to the farms where they were reared
   
• long-distance transportation of livestock for slaughter should be replaced with a 'meat carcass-only' trade
   
• during transport, higher welfare standards should be used and the animals looked after by competent and caring staff.

We are working in a number of different ways to improve the conditions in which all animals are transported. 

If animal welfare is not a priority during live transport, there can be a high risk of animal suffering.

• Handling during loading onto and unloading from vehicles can be stressful.
   
• During transport animals may be faced with strange sights, movements, noises, smells and unfamiliar animals. 
   
• Heat stress, lack of good ventilation and long periods without food, water or rest can add to welfare problems.

Find out more about live transport.