The Nationals leader seeks live sheep export meeting with WA Premier

Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud is seeking an urgent meeting with Western Australia’s new Premier Roger Cook about the phase out of live sheep exports.
Mr Littleproud has asked Mr Cook to support the live sheep industry, after former Premier Mark McGowan and Minister for Agriculture Jackie Jarvis were consistent and clear in affirming the WA Government’s support for the continuation of the live sheep export industry.
“I congratulate Premier Cook on his new role,” Mr Littleproud said.
“It is now crucial Premier Cook acts quickly, to save the live sheep export trade, which is worth $85 million and supports more than 3000 jobs.
“I am confident Premier Cook will provide me with an urgent response and meet as soon as possible to discuss this important issue.”
Mr Littleproud added he was disappointed the Federal Labor Government continued to push ahead with the phase out.
He said he had already personally guaranteed the industry that a future Coalition Government would bring back live sheep exports and save the trade.
“Premier Cook has the ability to step up and work with his Federal counterparts to get the live sheep export ban overturned, as the phase out has not been founded on any sort of tangible animal welfare evidence.
“As former Premier McGowan and Minister Jarvis have repeatedly stated, the animal welfare performance of the live sheep export industry since 2018 has been sufficient.
“Ultimately, shutting down the industry will have enormous consequences for Western Australia, as 90 per cent of all sheep exported from Australia are from WA.
“I look forward to meeting Premier Cook as soon as possible and I urge him to prioritise the live sheep industry.”