§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what research his Department has undertaken into welfare problems affecting broiler chickens; and if he will make a statement. [160898]
§ Mr. MorleyWe recognise that current systems of broiler chicken production raise a number of animal welfare issues on which more scientific knowledge is needed. This Department therefore continues to fund an extensive research programme into broiler chicken welfare, including projects focusing on key issues such as leg health and stocking densities.
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§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to commission an independent survey of broiler lameness; how many unannounced visits were made by the state veterinary service to broiler units since he received the letter, dated 23 January, sent to him by the chairman of FAWC; and if he will make a statement. [160896]
§ Mr. MorleyWe are currently considering, together with FAWC and the industry, the best way to take forward the issues they have identified on broiler chicken leg health, including the need for an independent survey. Completion of this work has been disrupted by activity on foot and mouth disease. The state veterinary service's programme of animal welfare farm inspections has been similarly disrupted.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what regulations govern breeding procedures for broiler chickens. [160897] Mr. Morley: In England, the welfare of broiler breeding chickens is regulated by the Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Regulations 2000. Separate regulations apply in the devolved Administrations. Supplementary recommendations will appear in a new welfare code of recommendations for chickens and broiler breeders that is currently being finalised.