Report Reveals Only 2.3% of Animal Farming Welfare Violations Lead to Prosecution

October 21, 2024 TruthUSA

A think tank is advocating for increased government oversight of the predominantly self-regulated animal farming industry. They propose the appointment of an animal welfare commissioner to elevate standards.

The Social Market Foundation published a report highlighting the need for government intervention in the animal farming sector, as only a small fraction of welfare breaches lead to legal action.

The report recommends the establishment of an animal welfare commissioner by the government, similar to the Children’s Commissioner, to champion higher standards.

Despite the UK’s reputation for high animal welfare standards, the report uncovered numerous instances of cruelty towards farmed animals going unaddressed.

Titled “Taking Responsibility,” the report refers to research by Animal Equality UK and the Animal Law Foundation, indicating that only 2.3 percent of welfare breaches resulted in court proceedings.

In the UK, welfare enforcement responsibilities are divided between local authorities and the Animal and Plant Health Agency. State inspections cover just 3 percent of farms annually, with the majority relying on industry-led assessments every 12 to 18 months.

Industry-led assurance programs like Red Tractor have shown deficiencies in responding to breaches, with inadequate transparency and data availability hindering accountability.

A Nation of Animal Lovers?

The Red Tractor scheme, initiated by the National Farmers Union of England and Wales in 2000, aimed to restore trust in British food following disease outbreaks.

While Red Tractor certifies about 80 percent of UK farm production, instances of welfare breaches have been identified at Red Tractor-affiliated farms since its inception.

The report indicates that although compliance with welfare standards is slightly higher in farms covered by private assurance programs, such participation does not guarantee adherence. Assurance schemes have failed to adequately address breaches when identified.

Aveek Bhattacharya, research director of the SMF and a report author, stated that the lenient enforcement of welfare rules undermines the perception of the UK as a nation of animal lovers.

“The current structure, dividing enforcement between the central government and resource-stretched councils, has allowed neglect. This has led to increased reliance on private sector programs with conflicting interests,” he added.

“Even small rates of non-compliance can result in significant animal suffering, especially in a country where over a billion chickens are slaughtered annually. Improved accountability and transparency are crucial to treat the issue seriously.”

‘Troubling Evidence’

Abigail Penny, a director of Animal Equality UK, expressed concern over the distressing instances of animal cruelty her organization has uncovered over the years.

Footage obtained includes pigs being mistreated, newborn calves being abused, and chickens dying from neglect.

Penny criticized the lack of government surveillance and enforcement of existing laws, citing an over-reliance on accreditation schemes for inspections. She highlighted the conflict of interest in industry-funded schemes.

Dr. James Russell, Red Tractor’s independent vet director, disputed the claims made in the report, emphasizing Red Tractor’s commitment to addressing non-compliance and maintaining standards.

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