§ 33. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in view of the fact that the codes of welfare recommendations for livestock which he plans to prepare under Section 3 of the Agriculture Act, 1968, are not compulsory, if he will use instead his powers under Section 2 of the Act to make provisions by regulation.
§ Mr. John MackieMy right hon. Friend has already announced some proposals for regulations. The Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Committee will advise us on any other matters where regulations appear justified.
§ Mr. RankinWill not my hon. Friend take note of the views of many of us in the House who are deeply interested in the subject of animal welfare? Does he realise that we do not regard the powers which are already given as being of sufficient consequence? Will he look at the matter more closely?
§ Mr. MackieWe recognise that there is a wide variety of opinion, not only in the House but elsewhere, on this very complex subject of animal welfare under modern methods. We have a very high-powered advisory committee to help us. I assure my hon. Friend that everything is being done to balance all the views. One important point to bear in mind is that farming profits could be affected to a considerable extent if some of the recommendations were implemented to the full.
§ Mr. TurtonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there is considerable disappointment in the country that the Department's approach is so hesitant as he showed in his reply and that it is not aiming for the quick implementation of the Brambell Report?
§ Mr. MackieIn the right hon. Member's word, this is a very hesitant subject. Since the Brambell Committee was appointed, we have gone a long way to produce 1398 these codes of practice and several Regulations which the Minister has already accepted. This is a very complex subject and not easy to deal with.
§ Mr. RankinOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.