Compassion welcomes new Animal Welfare Strategy

Compassion in World Farming (Compassion) has said that the government’s new Animal Welfare Strategy marks an historic turning point for farmed animals across England. The plan sets out the government’s priorities and focuses on the changes and improvements it aims to achieve by 2030.

Compassion said that is it particularly pleased to see a commitment to phase out cages for laying hens and farrowing crates for sows. This move alone has the potential to benefit the lives of more than 7m birds every year.

The campaign group says it is also encouraging to see Defra recognise the urgent need to address welfare issues arising from the use of CO₂ to stun and kill pigs. Likewise, Compassion says it is excited to see a commitment to introduce standards for the humane slaughter of farmed fish.

Dr Tracey Jones, global director of food business for Compassion in World Farming, said: “The government’s new Animal Welfare Strategy, with its commitment to ending cages for laying hens and sows, presents a rare and powerful opportunity to advance the welfare of farmed animals. To realise the full promise this strategy holds, the government must now consult on each of these important proposals and move at pace to set good minimum standards that will deliver real benefits to animals within an ambitious timeline.”

While the actions focus on England, Defra will also work closely with the devolved governments to take coordinated action where appropriate.

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