§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the most recent report his Department has produced on the efficiency of methods76W used for the automated slaughter of hens; and whether each method meets the standards laid down by the Farm Animal Welfare Council.
§ Mr. SoamesThere is no specific report on the efficiency of methods used for the automated slaughter of hens, but the Ministry's veterinary officers regularly monitor the welfare conditions of poultry at slaughter, including the methods used for the automated slaughter of hens. Automated slaughtering methods appear to be working effectively and any problems detected are dealt with speedily. The welfare of poultry at slaughter is covered by primary and secondary legislation and a statutory code of practice. A list of these, and details of implementation of the Farm Animal Welfare Council's recommendations on the subject, is in the Library of the House.