§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what area would be required for a caged hen to allow her to perform all natural functions without hindrance; what is the area designated within the battery system per hen; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacleanRecent research has indicated that the activity demanding most space for a single bird (wing flapping) requires a considerably greater area than the minimum space allowance of 450 sq cm laid down in the Economic Community battery hens directive. In the review of the directive which is due to commence this year we will press for the minimum space to be increased.