Written question asked by Laurence Robertson (Conservative) on Tuesday, 22 October 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 30 October 2002. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Wednesday, 30 October 2002 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will make a statement about the animal welfare standards in (a) pig and (b) poultry farms. - Includes ref to Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Regulations 2000.

Answer: Mr. Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement about the animal welfare standards in (a) pig and (b) poultry farms. [76959] Mr. Morley: There is comprehensive legislation in place to protect the welfare of all farmed animals. In particular, the Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Regulations 2000, as amended, include detailed requirements for pigs and laying hens. There are also species-specific welfare codes. Arrangements are in place to implement new EU directives on pig welfare and to update the existing welfare code. New codes for laying hens and meat and breeding chickens were introduced in July.

Secondary information