§ Mr. Bob RussellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proposals he has to end the ritual slaughter of animals. [17253]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Government do not propose to remove the right of the Jewish and Muslim communities to slaughter animals in accordance with the requirements of their religion. We do, however, believe that animals should be stunned before slaughter wherever possible. We will continue to discuss our concerns with representatives of the religious communities, with a view to encouraging, where possible, an increase in the incidence of stunning before slaughter.