HC Deb 12 June 1996 vol 279 cc201-2W
Mr. Morley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what estimate he has of the number of ostriches in the UK. [32510]

Mrs. Browning

The Ministry does not collect data separately for ostriches.

Mr. Morley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what provisions regulate the slaughter of ostriches. [32511]

Mrs. Browning

I refer the hon. Member to my reply of 21 March 1996,Official Report, column 314. The Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995, SI 1995, No. 731, regulate the slaughter of ostriches in Great Britain. Similar legislation applies in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Morley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what research is being conducted into humane methods of slaughtering ostriches. [32512]

Mrs. Browning

Earlier this year, a research study of commercial ostrich slaughter practice in the Republic of South Africa was commissioned by the Ministry. In consultation with representatives of the ostrich industry and others, the findings of that study are being used to prepare guidance on humane slaughter which will be made available to ostrich producers. A copy will be placed in the Library of the House once it is completed.