At yesterday’s live exports demo Kay Hamilton, Dowager Duchess of Hamilton and SfA Spokesman John Patrick, approached MSPs to ask that they call for support for Zac Goldsmith’s amendment to the Agriculture Bill at Westminster.
Although we recognise that these are two distinct legislatures, we believe that if they truly care about a ban they would encourage constituents to approach their MPs to ensure the amendment’s success.
It was noted with concern that none of them (bar, to his credit, Colin Smyth) were even aware that the amendment was being proposed. Of even further concern was that on discovering this there appeared very little interest in it’s content.
Questions were then asked for clarification as to how MSPs intended to end live exports when it was a reserved matter.
On speaking to a member of parliamentary staff for the Scottish Greens we received what was felt to be a nebulous and unconvincing response.
Mid-conversation the member of staff excused themselves assuring that they would return. They didn’t.
The Director of Political Strategy for the Scottish Greens later approached us and was asked for answers. On our request for details, and after delivering an incoherent, evasive reply, the guy accused John of being aggressive and darted away.
This left us surprised to say the least.
On live exports, there are some politicians who are looking more and more like ghouls who won’t let suffering go to waste when there’s a chance of a good photo op.
Until these individuals can lay out a detailed and rational explanation on how they’re going to end live exports via the devolved framework, Scotland for Animals advise supporters not to waste their time with them.
Instead, please concentrate on pressing MPs at Westminster to back Zac’s amendment.
We would however encourage support for Colin Smyth MSP in his work to keep the subject in the public eye. The Scottish Government and it’s fellow travellers must be exposed and held accountable for support for the trade.
Contact your MP by following the quick steps here; https://www.writetothem.com/
SAMPLE TEXT;
I am contacting you regarding the live export of animals.
Could you please let me know;
Do you support a ban on the live export of animals for slaughter or fattening?
And If you do,
What action you will be taking to ensure the inclusion of provision for a ban in the Agriculture Bill?