NSA recognises ambitions of the launch of “Action Plan for Animal Welfare” by UK Government

12th May 2021

The National Sheep Association (NSA) listened with great interest to the Queen’s speech on Tuesday announcing plans for legislative changes in key areas covering animal welfare alongside focused actions in the Environment Bill to protect nature.
 
Acknowledging how both health and welfare of all animals is woven into the health of our planet, the proposals cover five key areas, including recognition of sentience, and the consideration of animal welfare in policy making and trade negotiations, along with enhanced protection for livestock, pets, and wild animals.
 
Commenting on the outline of the Queens Speech, NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: “There were both welcome and unwelcome intentions outlined within the Queens Speech and as is often the case the devil will be in the detail as these Bills get developed. We are enthusiastic about being a global leader in health and welfare (and environmental) standards, but these have to be based on evidence and practicality, and it will not advance welfare of animals if these standards aren’t a requirement for food imports to the UK. There is absolutely nothing to be gained from pushing things out of sight and high standard farming has to be economically viable at an industry scale.
 
“NSA is still highly concerned over the proposals outlined in the Government’s recent consultation on journey times and welfare in transport and we do not feel that an outright ban on live exports for slaughter is necessary. We believe there are more creative and intelligent ways to ensure good welfare outcomes and that there are cases where moving animals short distances across the English Channel makes sense”.
 
Mr Stocker adds: The Animal Health and Welfare Pathway as part of the Future Farming Programmes, planned for launch in 2022, gives the opportunity for something we all want to see, improved animal health and well-being, improved productivity and efficient resource use, and less reliance on financial support integrated with environmental gains and enhancements. The aspiration is good, but there will be challenges achieving it and clarity is still sought on exactly what support will look like for health and welfare enhancements that are valued by the public. Many of the UK’s sheep farmers are already farming in a regenerative farming manner, and are doing a lot to work in harmony with nature, producing sustainable and high quality products that needs to be rewarded accordingly.”
 
NSA also welcomes the acknowledgement of the Action Plan on the emotional distress and economic catastrophe attacks on livestock by dogs can cause and its commitment to ensuring new powers are available to the police allowing them to respond to the most serious incidents. 

Mr Stocker concludes: “NSA has worked tirelessly to achieve a change in legislation in England and Wales protecting sheep farmers more effectively from dog attacks. Following the acceptance of the Bill in Scotland earlier this year that sees dog owners facing fines of up to £40,000 and possible prison sentences for the most serious of offences we hope the UK will soon be an equal playing field for legislation on this matter.”