Question reference: S6W-18380
- Date lodged: 25 May 2023
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Current status: Answered by Mairi Gougeon on 6 June 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its timescale is for launching a consultation to examine the use of cages for laying hens.
Answer
The Scottish Government takes the improvement of welfare for all animals in Scotland very seriously and is keen to progress a consultation on the cage use for laying hens, alongside other animal welfare commitments
Consultation on phasing out cage use for laying hens was originally intended to be delivered jointly across the UK. However, progress on a number of important pieces of animal welfare legislation have been significantly delayed due to UK Government timetabling.
I have repeatedly expressed the Scottish Government’s disappointment and the need for urgency on a number important animal welfare issues, where joint working across GB has been previously agreed. Sadly no further clarity has been provided by UK Ministers.
While Scottish Ministers remain committed to introducing joint legislation where it is sensible and logical to do so in the interests of animal welfare, further consideration will be given to how we can best deliver our commitments going forward.