THE Green Party's prospective parliamentary candidate for Camborne and Redruth is highlighting animal welfare in his election campaign.

Euan McPhee has pledged his support for Vote Cruelty Free, a new coalition of animal protection organisations working to put animals on the political agenda.

The alliance has sent its manifesto to all candidates announced for the next General Election and asked them to show their support for the issues raised.

Mr McPhee said: "As a biologist, smallholder and environmentalist, I have long held the view that animals have the right to humane treatment.

"I keep free-range poultry, sheep, cattle and pigs and try to raise them in a way in which they are able to fully express their normal patterns of behaviour.

"I would not be happy if any of my animals were suffering in any way, and I see no reason why farmers, or any other people who have responsibility for the welfare of animals, should not have the highest concern for the well being of all animals. I am also completely opposed to fox-hunting.

"Thus, I am pleased to endorse the essential work of Vote Cruelty Free."

A Vote Cruelty Free spokesman welcomed Mr McPhee's support: "It is fantastic that Euan McPhee has shown he believes in animal protection issues as much as his potential future constituents in Camborne and Redruth.

"We are calling on all candidates to follow his lead by pledging their support for Vote Cruelty Free."

Vote Cruelty Free comprises the British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection (BUAV), Compassion in World Farming, International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), League Against Cruel Sports and Respect for Animals.  It covers a broad range of animal welfare issues including animal experimentation, cruel sports, the fur trade and farming.

Voters can track candidates who have signed up by visiting the website at www.votecrueltyfree.org