HC Deb 23 March 1979 vol 964 cc282-3W
Mr. Corbett

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will give details of the latest survey being undertaken into the welfare conditions of poultry battery units; how many units of what size it is intended to survey; what specific aspects of such units will be considered during the survey; whether he will publish the results of the survey; and when the survey is expected to be completed.

Mr. Strang

Arrangements have been made for Ministry veterinary officers to carry out welfare inspections in Great Britain over the next six months of some 350 holdings with laying flocks of over 1,000 birds and of some 40 holdings with smaller flocks. The inspections will cover all aspects of the welfare of hens kept on such holdings. It is planned to publish the results of these visits along with information on other welfare matters in the annual report of the Chief Veterinary Officer for 1979.