I would like to assure you that my ministerial colleagues and I take the welfare of all animals seriously. Since publishing the Action Plan for Animal Welfare, the Government has delivered an ambitious legislative programme, bringing significant improvements for animals both in the UK and abroad. Ministers are firmly committed to maintaining the UK’s strong track record on animal welfare and to delivering continued improvements, both in the course of this Parliament and beyond.
I understand that my ministerial colleagues do not
believe that the time is right to consult on cage reforms, recognising some of
the challenges that numerous sectors have faced in recent years. I am informed
that the market is already driving the move away from using cages for laying
hen production, with over 60 per cent of eggs coming from free range
production. Regarding pigs, the UK also has a significant outdoor pig sector,
with 40 per cent of the national sow breeding herd farrow freely on
outdoor pig units with no option of confinement.
I am assured that the Government will continue to
work with the sector to maintain and enhance high standards of welfare. For
example, the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway will prioritise areas for
additional improvement in the health and welfare for pigs, cattle, sheep and
poultry. I know that one of the Government’s priorities for the pathway
includes supporting producers to transition away from confinement
systems.
Of course, if you have specific concerns about the
welfare of an animal, I recommend reporting it to the police or the RSPCA.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
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