Politicians United Against Federal Cattle Bill

NORTHERN TERRITORY, AUSTRALIA - The Northern Territory's Opposition Leader says legislation to make the stunning of cattle compulsory before slaughter in overseas abattoirs is a step too far.

31 October 2011

1 minute read

Oceania

ABCNews reports that federal independent MP Andrew Wilkie introduced the bill in the wake of the live export suspension to Indonesia.

Opposition Leader Terry Mills says many abattoirs he has visited already slaughter cattle humanely, even if they are not stunned.

"I think it is over-reach, to require our neighbour to stun all animals that come from Australia is going just one step too far," Mr Mills said.

"They comply with international standards in the complying abattoirs in Indonesia."

The Chief Minister says his government supports the Australian government's current stance on stunning cattle before slaughter.

Paul Henderson says humane slaughter steps should be taken where possible.

"What we support is the current Australian government position, which is to encourage and work with countries in Indonesia and other export destinations to encourage mandatory stunning, wherever possible, as being absolutely the preferred method of dispatching animals," Mr Henderson said.