The Government, like some in the farming sector, believes the livestock trade opens New Zealand and its farmers to long-term reputational damage no matter how high we set animal welfare standards for the voyages and everyone's best efforts. We acknowledge the economic benefits some farmers get from the trade, but support for it is not universal. There are different opinions on its long-term value amongst farmers, how it affects New Zealand's commitment to animal welfare, and our image in the eyes of international consumers. Those involved in the trade have made improvements over recent years, but the voyage times to the Northern Hemisphere markets will always impose animal welfare challenges. 