Protestors held a march in London on Saturday, organised by Compassion in World Farming, against the live export of farm animals.

They were calling for a change in the law which would enable port authorities, such as Dover Harbour Board, to refuse to handle the trade, something which they can not currently do.

More than 10,000 sheep and calves are said to have been exported live through Dover since the trade returned to the port in May.

Philip Lymbery CEO of Compassion in World Farming says: “By marching through London, our supporters are sending a clear message to the Farming Minister David Heath that we are demanding action to be taken to end live exports for good.

“This government has used European legislation as an excuse not to end the cruel and unpopular export of live animals to an uncertain fate on the continent. Defra has said it would prefer to see animals slaughtered as near as possible to where they are reared so now we need to see some action, not more excuses.

“Animals should be slaughtered or fattened as close as possible to where they are born, as long distance transport can have a terrible effect their welfare.”

Under the 160 year-old Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act 1847, public ports in Britain cannot refuse live animals for export, as all ports must allow the free trade of goods, which includes animals.

The protestors say UK law should reflect that animals have been recognised as sentient beings under EU law since 1999 and that a different set of rules and regulations should apply to creatures, as opposed to “goods”.

They say Mr Heath has the power to amend the 1847 Act and by doing so improve the welfare of thousands of animals by stopping them being transported to the continent.

“Amending the Act would not break EU law and would give UK ports the power to refuse live exports,” said Mr Lymbery. “Ultimately, giving local authorities the power to refuse live exports could end the trade.