LONDON: The UK government said it plans to phase out the use of cages for laying hens as part of a wide-ranging package of animal welfare reforms covering pets, farm animals, and wildlife across England and Wales.
The proposals are set out in a new Animal Welfare Strategy, which the government said aims to close regulatory gaps that have allowed poor practices to persist, while strengthening protections for animals kept in homes, on farms, and in the wild, reports Anadolu.
Ending the use of cages for hens is among the central measures, alongside plans to move away from other confinement systems such as pig farrowing (birthing) crates. The strategy also addresses concerns over the use of carbon dioxide to stun pigs, calls for humane slaughter standards for farmed fish, and promotes the use of slow-growing meat chicken breeds.
The government said the reforms would also tackle puppy farming, a practice in which breeding dogs are often kept in poor conditions and overbred, leading to long-term health problems. These proposals build on existing legislation that has already banned puppy smuggling.
New laws are also planned to strengthen protections for farm animals from dog attacks, including tougher penalties and expanded police powers aimed at reducing the emotional and financial toll on farming communities.
For companion animals, the strategy proposes reforms to dog breeding practices, a consultation on banning electric shock collars, possible new licensing requirements for rescue and rehoming organisations, and measures to promote responsible dog ownership.
Wildlife proposals include banning trail hunting, outlawing snare traps, and introducing a closed season for hare hunting.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said the reforms would mark a significant shift in animal protection standards in Britain.
“We’re a nation of animal lovers. This government is delivering the most ambitious animal welfare strategy in a generation,” Reed said. “Our strategy will raise welfare standards for animals in the home, on the farm, and in the wild.”
