Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions he has had with his international counterparts on the potential merits of legislation overseas to close wet animal markets and butcheries; and if he will make a statement.

The UK is at the forefront of international efforts to protect the interests of animals throughout the world.

The Government, through the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, also raises concerns about the health and welfare of animals with other governments and international authorities at every suitable opportunity.