The food industry has failed to improve standards of farm animal transport, according to a new survey.

The RSPCA argues leading fast food chains, restaurants, supermarkets and wholesalers, have failed to take steps to prevent another outbreak of foot and mouth disease.

Forum Response: RSPCA

Dr Julia Wrathall, spokesperson for the RSPCA, told ePolitix.com: "It is disgraceful that only 20 per cent of those companies surveyed indicated they already had or were going to revise their policy following the devastation caused by foot and mouth disease.

"The current system is failing animals. The movement restrictions put in place during the outbreak are slowly being relaxed and it is clear the government should now introduce stricter, permanent controls. Equally, the industry must make immediate improvements and we are encouraged that some companies surveyed have indicated an interest in working with the RSPCA to develop their policies."