Written question asked by Andrew George (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 14 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026. It was answered by Stephen Morgan (Labour) on Thursday, 18 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Poultry: Animal Welfare

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether further supported welfare improvements for laying hens will be incorporated into the UK Animal Health and Welfare Pathway.

Answer: Under the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, eligible poultry keepers have had access to capital grants to improve welfare in laying hens. The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund, which closed its final round on 12 May, offered grants up to £25,000 for equipment and technology for higher welfare production. Earlier this year, Defra announced funding to deliver on-farm Poultry Biosecurity Reviews, expected to launch summer 2026, to build resilience against Avian Influenza and other threats. Defra continues to work with industry on how the Pathway can support high standards of animal welfare including simplifying and rationalising any grant funding from 2027 onwards.

Secondary information