Lewes MP and Lib Dem Animal Welfare Spokesman Norman Baker says the government should be able to ban the import of chicken and other meat products from countries where animal welfare standards are unacceptably low. Speaking at the annual lunch of the British Poultry Council in central London, Norman challenged Defra Minister Lord Whitty to argue for changes to current World Trade Organisation rules that would both improve animal welfare and protect British farmers who have higher standards.
In response, Lord Whitty promised that the government and EU would try to achieve changes to WTO rules, but said he was not hopeful that this could be achieved. The US administration and others were opposed.
Speaking after the lunch, Norman comments:
"It is totally unacceptable that in the 21st century many animals across the world which are destined for the dinner table are still reared in conditions which are unnecessarily cruel and distressing. This is not only bad for the animal but also for the consumer if they wish to enjoy a high quality product.
"Animals have basic rights which must be met, whether they are pets or otherwise, and Governments must have an obligation to respect these. Clearly, in some parts of the world levels of animal welfare are unacceptable low and we must amend WTO rules to allow countries the right to refuse imports of animal products such as chicken where this is the case.
"I was pleased by the positive response of the Minister, even if a change to the rules looks some way off."
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