§ Lord HOUGHTON of SOWERBY asked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware of certain proposals to introduce battery farm methods of fattening donkeys and horses for butchery; and, if so, whether this is a matter for urgent reference to the Farm Animals Welfare Council; whether planning permission is necessary for the use of premises for this purpose; and whether this latest project for the exploitation of these animals for a purpose deeply offensive to public sentiment in Britain will be discouraged.
§ Lord SANDYSThe Government are aware of proposals to establish fattening units for horses and donkeys and in no way wish to encourage this development. The Farm Animal Welfare Council will be asked to advise on the welfare implications of such units should they be introduced.
The local authority for the area in respect of which these proposals have been made is considering whether planning permission will be needed.