Many of my constituents have contacted me regarding the confinement of pigs in metal cages on British farms.
The UK has a significant outdoor pig sector with 40% of the national sow breeding herd farrowing freely on outdoor units with no option for confinement. Defra’s 2018 statutory welfare code of practice for pigs confirms that ‘the aim is for farrowing crates to no longer be necessary and for any new system to protect the welfare of the sow, as well as her piglets’. Over the years the Government has funded research into farrowing systems which led to the website Freefarrowing.org. This site provides a variety of information and resources for pig farmers on the different farrowing options available and includes the latest research conducted on them.
The Government continue to work with the farming industry to maintain and enhance our high standards. The Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, part of the new domestic agricultural policy, supports farmers to produce healthier, higher welfare animals. The Government’s welfare priorities for the Pathway include supporting producers to transition away from confinement systems.
