End the Cage Age petition reaches major milestone

We're thrilled to share that the Compassion-led parliamentary petition, calling on the UK Government to End the Cage Age, has reached the 100,000 signatures target today (22nd April), in under three months.

Inhumane and archaic

In the UK, approximately 8 million laying hens endure most of their lives in so-called 'enriched' cages, each with only around the space of an A4 sheet of paper. Additionally, over 150,000 mother pigs are confined to narrow crates when nursing their piglets. Calves, quail, and game birds also suffer severe confinement. Cages restrict and thwart many of an animal’s natural instincts. They are inhumane, archaic and detrimental to welfare.

Now that the petition has gained 100K signatures, the topic will be considered for debate in Parliament. If a debate is held, MPs from across the political spectrum will be able to address this issue and the relevant Defra Minister would be required to respond, setting out what action the Government intends to take.

Widespread support

We want to say a huge thank you to all our amazing supporters for driving this campaign forward. We are also extremely grateful to our friends at Animal Equality, Four Paws, the Humane League, the League Against Cruel Sports, One Kind, Open Cages, Humane World for Animals and World Animal Protection, who have helped us to reach this target. Together, we're making a real difference!

Several of our wonderful Patrons and High Profile Supporters, including Dr Amir Khan, Chris Packham, Peter Egan, Sharon Capenter, Mike Beckingham have also backed the petition which was launched by the fabulous Joanna Lumley in January. As always, their support has been invaluable in spreading our message.

Embracing a cage-free future

“We are overwhelmed by the incredible support everyone has shown for this campaign! Having reached 100K signatures in less than two months, we now want to see this trigger Parliament to debate the plight of around 8 million farmed animals suffering in cages here in the UK,” said Emma Hamm, our Senior Campaigns Manager. “ We urge the Government to listen to public opinion and embrace a cage-free future in order to protect millions of animals every year.”

“Cages are cruel, outdated and just plain wrong. It's time to end this suffering and bring about real change for their welfare. It’s time to End the Cage Age.”