§ 13. Miss Fookesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will commission research into methods of veal production with the objective of funding a method both economic and humane.
§ Mr. StrangCurrent research commissioned by my Department into methods of calf rearing take into account animal welfare.
§ Miss FookesDoes the Minister appreciate that many people, including myself, find veal production so distasteful that they will not eat veal? Will he therefore take more active measures to try and produce methods that are humane?
§ Mr. Strang:A lot of the research that we are carrying out is relevant. I accept 690 that not only the hon. Lady but many hon. Members on both sides of the House are very concerned about animal welfare generally. I cannot accept that all veal production is necessarily cruel.
§ Mr. Arthur LathamWill my hon. Friend, on reflection, acknowledge that, by its nature, there cannot be a genuinely humane form of veal production? Does he see a connection between veal and the seal? Is he aware that early-day motions have been tabled by the hon. Lady and myself on the subject? Does he agree that those who support us might also draw the line at veal production?
§ Mr. StrangI cannot accept entirely what my hon. Friend said. We have a code of animal welfare for cattle production. We are most anxious that the State veterinary service should keep a close watch on all veal production in this country and take the necessary steps if any cruelty is involved.