The rules require anyone transporting animals over 65km to have specific authorisation and, from 2008, an independent certificate of competency.

NFU Scotland claim the regulations could cost the industry over £40 million with small-scale hauliers being hit with £100,000 costs unless derogations were made available. It wants exemptions to allow existing haulage vehicles to use their current ramps.

In addition, it said while it supported the requirements for new ventilation and navigation systems on vehicles exporting animals, there was no need for them on journeys in this country.

Source: farmersguardian.com