ANIMAL welfare groups calling for action to limit the transport of live animals to Europe have been accused of a cynical and badly timed attack on livestock farmers.
The RSPCA have published a report showing a dramatic increase in live exports after the resumption of a trade which has been limited since 1996 with BSE and foot-and-mouth restrictions.
According to the report 538,588 live animals were transported last year compared to 37,000 in 2005.