The Greens party and some antiquated union believes there should be a ban on live animal exports. Processed meat exports are more profitable they reckon.
I’m no expert on the meat industry but I’m pretty sure companies exist to maximize profits. Live animal exports are there for a reason. It wasn’t pursued randomly. For example the countries that import live animals may want them live so that they can process the animals themselves for religious reasons. I don’t think the Greens are in the best position to gauge economic decisions. Companies are pretty good at that.
I’ve said it before – no knee jerk reactions from the government this time round please. Any changes need to be to the satisfaction of all stakeholders. Banning live exports so that countries import their live meat from other sources does not improve animal welfare. In fact it makes it worse – there’s a good chance an alternative live animal exporter will not have the standards of Australian exporters. Animal welfare is worse and Australia loses business. If we ban our exports that does not change a country’s demand for live imports. What are we trying to achieve?
November 6th, 2012 at 4:15 am
The Greens can go and climb back down into their fairy garden as far as I’m concerned. Getting rid of the inept Ludwig would, however, be doing everyone (including Labor) a favour!
November 6th, 2012 at 11:58 pm
Ha yeah well most of labor are inept and would benefit everyone if gotten rid of.