§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to introduce greater control of intensively farmed ducks; and if she will make a statement. [188307]
§ Mr. BradshawThe welfare of ducks is protected by the Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1968, which makes it an offence to cause unnecessary pain or unnecessary distress. More detailed standards are laid down in the Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 1870). These regulations include specific requirements on inspections, record keeping, freedom of movement, buildings and equipment and feed and water.
There is also a specific Code of Recommendations for the Welfare of Ducks. Flock-keepers are required by law to have access to, and be familiar with this code, which encourages all those who care for ducks to adopt the highest standards of husbandry.
We are currently revising the duck welfare code and a three month public consultation ended on 10 September.