Published 01/12/2009

A parliamentary motion calling for the UK Government to improve the welfare of chickens has reached a top five position out of over 2400 tabled motions.

With an amazing 278 MP signatures at the close of the parliamentary session (November 2009), an Early Day Motion (EDM) calling for improved welfare of chickens came fifth behind calls to support solar energy and justice for equitable life policyholders.

Over 40% of all UK MPs supported EDM 581, calling for clear and honest labelling on chicken meat and urging the UK Government to improve the welfare of chickens reared for meat.

Mike Hancock MP, sponsor of EDM 581 says "Animal welfare is an important issue among UK politicians. The strong support for this parliamentary motion should send a clear message through the UK Government and to the supermarkets that the welfare of chickens must be taken seriously.

"I thank the supporters of the Chicken Out! campaign for bringing this issue and parliamentary motion to the attention of their local MPs."

Chicken Out! is delighted that a parliamentary motion has achieved a record number of MPs publicly showing support for higher welfare standards for chickens. With over 167,000 people now signed up to the Chicken Out! campaign and this unprecedented level of parliamentary support for animal welfare, it clearly shows that the welfare of chickens is being taken seriously.

Thank you to everyone who contacted their MP - together we are making a difference to the lives of millions of chickens.

GOVERNMENT CHANGE

The UK Government is shortly due to publish the first ever legislation specific to meat chicken welfare. Chicken Out! has been calling on The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) as it finalises the new law on chicken welfare, to enact stronger provisions than those contained in the EU legislation.

Help us call for improved standards: Email the animal welfare minister now >>