EU Agrees New Rules To Improve Welfare Of Chickens
EU - Farming ministers have agreed new rules to improve the welfare of chickens across Europe.
9 May 2007
2 minute read
For the first time chickens reared for meat production will be covered by strict regulations governing the conditions in which they are kept.
The new EU directive includes:
- the introduction of limits on stocking density
- cross-European Union (EU) training for the industry
- a possible new welfare labelling regime
- cross-EU data collection and scientific monitoring of impacts on welfare (eg genetics)
- action against anyone breaking the rules
“This is an unprecedented step, ensuring that this major sector has for the first time a set of strict rules to adhere to. The welfare of meat chickens is a major concern to people throughout the European Union.
“This agreement sends a strong message to the rest of the world that we care about animal welfare.”
Ben Bradshaw added that the UK successfully fought - supported by Sweden, Denmark and other welfare-minded countries - against a further watering down of the proposals led by France.
The Directive will come into force in 2010.
