In a bold move towards advancing animal welfare standards, the Scottish government, headquartered in Edinburgh, has launched a consultation process aimed at phasing out the use of enriched cages for laying hens. This initiative seeks input from the poultry industry regarding the proposed plans.
Under the proposed timeline, the intention is to institute a ban on the construction of new cages by 2033, with a subsequent complete prohibition on housing chickens in enriched cages by 2034.
The shift towards eliminating enriched cages marks a significant departure from previous practices. Since the UK’s ban on battery or barren cages in 2012, enriched cages have been hailed as offering more space for nesting, roosting, scratching, and resting. This transition aligns with the Scottish government’s commitment to agricultural policies and welfare considerations in this region. As of February 2024, over 1.1 million hens were housed in cages across Scotland.
However, public sentiment in the UK reveals a strong aversion to the use of cages in farming. A survey conducted in 2020 indicated that 88% of the British public perceive farming in cages as cruel, with 77% expressing support for a complete ban on their usage.
Jim Fairlie, the Agriculture Minister, articulated the government’s stance on the matter, emphasizing the imperative to safeguard the normal behaviors of laying hens. He noted the substantial strides made in recognizing the importance of animal welfare, both in governmental policies and consumer preferences. Fairlie underscored Scotland’s pioneering role in animal welfare by positioning itself as the first UK nation to propose such a ban.
Looking beyond Scotland’s borders, Fairlie pointed to the European Union’s efforts to legislate against the use of cages for all farmed livestock. Luxembourg and Austria have already implemented bans, with others in the EU phasing out their usage. Fairlie hinted at forthcoming consultations on phasing out cages in the gamebird and quail egg and meat sectors, inviting stakeholders to contribute to shaping future policies.
However, apprehensions loom within the British Egg Industry Council regarding the potential ramifications of the ban. CEO Gary Ford voiced concerns over potential job losses and reduced export opportunities. He highlighted the role of enriched colony cage systems in meeting the demand for affordable, nutritious food, particularly amid ongoing economic challenges. Ford warned of the possibility of importing caged eggs from countries with lower welfare standards should a ban be enforced, posing a threat to domestic producers.
