Farrowing Crates and Cages 2025-11-13
2025-11-13
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Animal Equality estimates that around 200,000 sows in the UK spend nearly a quarter of their adult life confined in farrowing crates. Additionally, research suggests that two-thirds of the public oppose their use.
I thank the Minister for her answer. Animal Equality estimates that around 200,000 sows in the UK spend nearly a quarter of their adult life confined in farrowing crates, which are metal barred cages that severely restrict their movement—they cannot even turn around. Some 75% of vets are concerned and research suggests that two thirds of the public oppose their use. When it comes to the animal welfare strategy, will the Minister commit to phasing out the use of all farrowing crates and the equally cruel cages for birds, and what practical steps will be put in place to support farmers with the transition?
It is important to remember that 50% of the national sow breeding herd live freely and are not kept in these kinds of cage systems at all, which I think shows the way forward. It is very important that we work with the industry to see how we can move away from the use of farrowing crates and create more flexible alternatives that are available to be introduced in a practical and pragmatic way.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to phasing out the use of all farrowing crates and cages for birds.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Farmers are often the best conservationists and many wish to do more to support both environmental and animal welfare issues, but financial sustainability is a key concern.
So often, farmers are the best conservationists. Many want to do even more to support the environment and animal welfare, but profitability and sustainability are key. Will the Minister confirm whether the Department will consider financial support for farmers to move towards more sustainable and strong animal welfare standards?
We are always ready to consider how we can bring about the policies that will be set out in the animal welfare strategy when we publish it. We are pragmatic about how we can shift from outdated systems and modernise, and we are proud that we have some of the highest standards of animal welfare in the world.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm whether financial support would be provided to farmers for sustainable transitions.
Response accuracy