HL Deb 02 March 1981 vol 417 cc1313-4WA
Lord Houghton of Sowerby

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How the Farm Animal Welfare Council is progressing with its work.

Lord Sandys

In its first 19 months, the Farm Animal Welfare Council has given valuable advice on a range of topics which include the harvesting of antlers in velvet and added legal safeguards for farm animals intended to be exported.

The council is currently preparing its recommendations on revised welfare codes for pigs, cattle, domestic fowls and turkeys and will consider whether any of the provisions of the codes could more appropriately be covered by regulations. Its advice is expected shortly on the mutilation of animals for farming purposes and it is also reviewing the welfare of livestock at the place of slaughter, starting with poultry.

The competence and thoroughness which the council has brought to its task has been impressive, as has been the wide range of topics that have engaged its attention.

House adjourned at six minutes past nine o'clock.