WE are extremely disappointed to read your report of Fergus Ewing’s statement that the Scottish Government will not be participating in the UK Government’s ban on all live exports of livestock (Live exports ban is ruled out, The National, February 5).

The Scottish Government seemingly likes to portray itself as progressive and humane but there is no way that this practice can be described as humane.

Surely a humane society should place a higher value on the welfare of other sentient creatures than on money?

The government should concentrate on getting the best possible price for meat that has been slaughtered as near to home as is possible.

Perhaps travelling to the continent in one of these “meat trucks”, standing all the way, would clarify the minister’s thoughts on this matter.

Dorothy & Colin Weatherley
Gullane, East Lothian