CCTV is now mandatory in abattoirs in England, which came into force on 4th May. It is part of the UK’s move to become one of the world’s leading countries for animal welfare. Official veterinarians will have unrestricted access to footage from abattoirs and ensure that high welfare standards are being followed.
The move follows a consultation held by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs last August. All slaughterhouses will be required to comply with this new legislation in full by November 5th, following a six month adjustment period.
Animal welfare minister, Lord Gardiner said: “The government shares the public’s high regard or animal welfare and we are proud to have some of the highest standards in the world. Today we welcome the new law which requires mandatory CCTV in all abattoirs in England.
In the new animal welfare legislations, the maximum sentence for animal cruelty will be up to five years in prison, a call for evidence on the live export of animals, banning the third party sale of puppies and banning back street puppy breeders, and publishing all the updated animal welfare codes.