Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what representations she has received from (a) charities, (b) academics and (c) the social sector on planned changes to the regulation of (i) the poultry industry and (ii) other livestock industries.

We have the highest standards of animal welfare in the world and no changes were ever planned to the animal welfare legislation upholding them, or to the strict enforcement and penalties that apply.

Defra sought views from interested parties in 2013 to inform the consultation on the principle of reforming the farm animal welfare codes, not regulation. Those that responded included animal welfare charities, the livestock industry, enforcement agencies, expert committees, academics, veterinarians, and members of the public. A list of respondents is included in the Government response published in 2015: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/farm-animal-welfare-codes-reform

In the light of views raised, the Government has given the matter further consideration and believes that its animal welfare objectives can be achieved by retaining statutory codes. The Government will continue to work with industry to ensure farmers have the guidance they need to help them comply with legislation and we will consult with interested parties as and when updates are needed.