Code of Practice for the welfare of laying hens

Overview

The purpose of this consultation is to seek views on a new statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Laying Hens, for England.

The purpose of the existing statutory code is to provide owners and keepers of laying hens with guidance on how to comply with relevant welfare legislation. 

The existing code has not been updated since it was published in 2002. 

The proposal is to revoke the existing statutory Code of Recommendations for the Welfare of Livestock: Laying Hens (2002) and to replace it with a new statutory code (provided in draft as part of this consultation). 

Why your views matter

The new statutory code aims to provide improved up-to-date guidance on the current legislation, reflect the latest scientific and veterinary knowledge and be presented in a clear and relevant way for farmers.

The consultation invites comments on whether and how well the draft statutory code published with this consultation document achieves these aims. 

How to respond:

Please visit our online survey link below.

Alternatively, if you wish to respond by other means, please contact us at : animalwelfare.consultations@defra.gsi.gov.uk

This consultation started on 29 January 2018 and closes on 9 March 2018.