Published 24/02/2015

We are pleased that the spotlight is back on slaughter without stunning. On 23^rd February, MPs debated non-stun slaughter in response to a petition started by the British Veterinary Association (BVA), signed by more than 100,000 people.

EU and UK law requires all animals to be stunned before slaughter, so that they don’t feel pain when they are killed. However, there is an exemption that allows slaughter without stunning for certain communities. Animals slaughtered for halal or kosher meat are allowed to be slaughtered without being stunned.

Animals slaughtered without being stunned have their throats cut whilst they are fully conscious which causes extreme pain and distress.

Debate in the House of Westminster

Several MPs expressed their support to stop slaughter without stunning.

Speaking during the debate, Mr Stewart (Beckenham) said: "I'll be very blunt. If it was going to happen to me and my throat was going to be cut, I would prefer to be stunned because I have seen what happens to pigs when they have their throat cut.

"It made my heart bleed, if that's not a pun.”

Our Head of Campaigns Emma Slawinski said: “We are disappointed the government refuses to act to improve animal welfare by banning slaughter without stunning.

 “While slaughter without stunning is still permitted, meat from unstunned animals should be labelled so consumers can make an informed choice.”

The government must act

George Eustice MP said he would pick up on a few of the issues highlighted. We hope that the government will take action to end the suffering of animals.

You can read the full transcript of the debate.