§ 6. Mr. CohenTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to improve the standards in turkey farming. [16102]
§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. Tony Baldry)We are currently considering recommendations from the Farm Animal Welfare Council for changes that will build on the protection already offered by legislation and welfare codes.
§ Mr. CohenDoes not the selective breeding of turkeys result in male birds suffering from congenital hip disorders and enduring chronic pain? Do not 2.5 million birds die in their sheds each year? Is there not a case for urgent reform of current turkey farming practices, and do not Agriculture Ministers deserve stuffing for allowing those bad practices?
§ Mr. BaldryThe hon. Gentleman rather spoilt what was obviously a serious observation by his trite comment at the end. Of course it is important that high animal welfare standards be maintained and improved. The Farm Animal Welfare Council reported last year on the welfare of turkeys and made several recommendations. If anyone had evidence to support the hon. Gentleman's contentions, that evidence would have been made available to the council. We have been taking careful note of the subsequent comments of the industry and of animal welfare organisations, and we shall publish our response shortly.
§ Mr. CongdonI welcome what my hon. Friend said about the need to ensure that turkey farming is carried out as humanely as possible. Should we not also recognise how successful the industry has been in rearing turkeys that represent such excellent value for money for the British consumer?
§ Mr. BaldryMy hon. Friend makes an excellent point. The price of turkey in supermarkets and elsewhere has been coming down over the years, which is of considerable benefit to the consumer and reflects considerable credit on the British turkey industry.