Urgent action needed to get Scottish livestock moving

Responding to reports yesterday that the Department for Transport will not allow a temporary lifting of restrictions on drivers' hours to get animals to market, SNP Rural Affairs Spokesperson Angus MacNeil MP said they must change their position.

The DfT have refused to lift the restrictions on the number of hours that drivers can work, only adding to the backlog of animals needing to get to market in light of recent restrictions due to foot and mouth.

Commenting Mr. MacNeil said:

"I totally understand the Road Haulage Association's and the many farmer's feelings of frustration with this situation. Thousands of animals welfare is at stake.

"This just shows the Westminster Government's complete failure to understand the situation in Scotland.

"The Department for Transport must immediately see sense and change its position."