NORTH-WEST Euro MP David Sumberg has welcomed a European Parliament ruling approving recommendations to improve the welfare of animals during transportation in Europe.

Each year, more than two million animals are transported across Europe and beyond.

"In supporting these recommendations, Conservative MEPs are demanding that each and every EU member state gives the same level of priority to animal welfare issues, and ensures that existing laws are enforced," said Mr Sumberg.

"We are also calling for a maximum limit of eight hours, or 500 km, on the transport of animals to slaughter or further fattening.

"And we are asking the European Commission to present a comprehensive policy plan by January 1, 2003, to encourage much more local slaughtering."