HC Deb 18 March 2002 vol 382 cc126-7W
Mr. Paterson

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many meetings her Department had with(a) scientists and (b) vets prior to agreement of the Welfare of Laying Hens Directive 1999/74/EC. [41232]

Mr. Morley

[holding answer 11 March 2002]: Interested parties, including scientists and vets were consulted during the course of the negotiations on the directive.

Mr. Paterson

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will ensure that in implementing the Welfare of Laying Hens Directive I999/74/EC the requirements in the United Kingdom are the minimum laid down in the Directive. [41413]

Mr. Morley

[holding answer 11 March 2002]: It is intended that the Welfare of Laying Hens Directive will be implemented in England without being added to in any way. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will follow suit. If changes are proposed there will be a full public consultation.