The Animal Welfare Policy Review is an independent, privately commissioned project that has been undertaken by a group of concerned individuals. We are reviewing current policies and seeking practical ideas for improving animal welfare in the United Kingdom, taking account of international standards.
Invitation to submit evidence
The standards we set for the welfare of our animals in husbandry are a mark of how we regard ourselves as a civilised society. Over the last ten years or so in the United Kingdom our society's awareness of animals' welfare needs has risen significantly, especially amongst younger people.
Animals are sentient beings and their welfare is all about their being "fit and happy". But the way in which animals are treated, whether it be on the farm, in transportation, at market or their place of slaughter, does not always match up to the standards set by law and can often fall well short of our aspirations for their well being. Poor welfare can lead to disease and severe suffering and sometimes this will have very serious economic consequences, as we have seen for example with BSE, FMD and bovine TB.
It is encouraging that a small but increasing number of concerned consumers are demanding answers about the way in which animals are being cared for in the production of food, and would prefer to buy from equally concerned and caring providers. Yet attitudes and practices are only likely to change comprehensively if society becomes determined to bring pressure to bear throughout the supply chain to play their part "from farm to fork", both in demanding and actually delivering real improvements in welfare. That is not going to be the result of a sentimental attitude towards animals but is likely to require a better understanding of the economics of food production and the costs and benefits of looking after animals well.
Whether you are a farmer, a representative organization, or someone involved in the business of supplying food, or simply an interested member of the public, if you have views or ideas that you would like us to consider, please send them to: participate@animalwelfarepolicyreview.org
