An MP is ‘delighted’ at the Government’s commitment to protect animals after Brexit.

The Government has confirmed that it will take early steps after Brexit to control the export of live farm animals for slaughter.

St Albans MP Anne Main requested plans last month from the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to bring forward proposals to ban transport of live cattle overseas when the UK leaves the EU.

Mrs Main also recently backed the Government's policy to introduce CCTV in slaughterhouses.

George Eustice, The DEFRA minister, said: “Once we leave the European Union, and in line with our manifesto commitment, we can take early steps to control the export of live farm animals for slaughter. We are currently considering options.”

Mrs Main says animal welfare and the environment are the two most popular topics constituents contact her about.

She co-sponsored a bill in March 2015 that would improve regulations on the export of British horses and ponies.

She said: “For years I have been a passionate advocate of animal welfare, and have supported measures to improve standards.

“‘I am delighted that government has reconfirmed its commitment to take steps on this issue.

“It was simply not right that we could not take effective action under EU legislation on the grounds of freedom of movement within the EU.”