The British Prime Minister, noted for purchasing a field in Surrey so his mother could care for rescue donkeys, likely understands the importance of preserving animal welfare in Britain.
Edie Bowles, executive director at The Animal Law Foundation, emphasized the importance of maintaining high animal welfare standards post-Brexit. She stated that any agreements should allow the UK to enhance these standards without being compromised by lower welfare imports. The UK public values animal welfare and expects it to be prioritized.
The potential SPS deal could influence animal welfare on both sides. Recently, the UK lowered protections for chickens, allowing handling by their legs, a practice banned in the EU. Bowles stressed the need to prevent the UK from lagging behind the EU, advocating for a mutual drive to improve standards.
Compromises might occur. Before the general election, Labour’s environment head, Steve Reed, promised to ban foie gras imports, but this policy remains unconfirmed by current ministers.
A UK government spokesperson mentioned plans to finalize the SPS agreement details following the UK-EU Summit, aimed at facilitating trade with the EU, while affirming the commitment to maintaining high animal welfare standards.
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