§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will take steps(a) to reduce the incidence of degenerative hip disorders and leg disorders in adult male turkeys, (b) to bring beak-trimming of turkeys to an end and (c) to secure an end to the selective breeding practices in respect of turkeys; and if he will make a statement. [15498]
§ Mrs. BrowningThe Government endorse the Farm Animal Welfare Council's view that high levels of leg disorders in adult male turkeys should be avoided by the continued application of careful selection and good management practices.
The Government also support the Farm Animal Welfare Council's view that the long-term aim should be to end the need for beak-trimming. We are funding research into improved rearing methods which will assist in its achievement.
I cannot agree with the implied suggestion that selective breeding is an inherently undesirable practice.
I refer the hon. Member to the Farm Animal Welfare Council's report on the welfare of turkeys, and to the Government's response to it, for a fuller assessment of turkey welfare and account of the steps the Government are taking to improve it.