MP Joins Campaign Against Animal Cruelty

26.05.04

The RSPCA have today welcomed the support of Edward Davey MP in their fight against the inhumane treatment of hens. By signing the Early Day Motion 1068 against battery cages for laying hens, he once again showed his commitment to animal welfare.

The EDM welcomes the Government's action on the compulsory labeling of all eggs with the farming methods used, but joins the RSPCA in calling for further legislation to completely outlaw battery cages. Whilst supporting the proposed ban across Europe in 2012, the motion highlights the fact that this is only a partial ban, as it fails to outlaw enriched battery cages. These cages allow only slightly more movement for the hens.

Edward Davey MP said,

'21 million hens still have to endure the intolerable conditions of battery cages. Although I welcome the 2012 ban, this does not go far enough. What I would like to see is the Government following Germany's example with a complete ban on this barbaric practice.

'I support the RSPCA's call for an unconditional ban on all battery systems and their replacement with free range and barn systems that allow the birds free movement.

'In heeding this call the Government would be responding to the overwhelming majority of public opinion. A poll commissioned by the RSPCA revealed that a significant 86 per cent of people think that battery farming is cruel and 78 per cent believe the government should ban the cages now.

'Animal rights has always been a subject close to my heart and was one of the reasons I first joined the Liberal Democrats. Adding my support to this vital campaign was therefore an opportunity I relished.'

Further details available at www.rspca.org.uk