The introduction of mandatory CCTV in all abattoirs in England in 2018 has been effective in improving animal welfare standards, a five-year post-Implementation review has concluded.
Taking into account views from industry, animal welfare groups and retailers, the report, which can be viewed here, suggests the presence mandatory CCTV has been a useful source of evidence to support enforcement action, including prosecutions, when breaches of animal welfare legislation take place, thereby helping to maintain animal welfare standards.
The findings include :
- In 2020/21, CCTV recordings were instrumental in one in every three suspensions/revocations of slaughterers’ Certificates of Competence.
- Evidence to suggest that CCTV has played an important role in providing assurance to retailers, assurance scheme operators and the public that slaughterhouses are operating at high welfare standards.
- Evidence of the effectiveness of CCTV for use as a training and quality assurance tool.
Farming Minister Mark Spencer said:“We are committed to ensuring all animals are treated with the utmost respect at all stages of life.
“I am pleased to see that this legislation is proving to be effective in upholding our commitment and is providing assurance to retailers and the public that the great British meat industry they support is maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.”
The Food Standards Agency recently secured three successful prosecutions in animal welfare cases where CCTV played a fundamental role in identifying potential offences that were subsequently referred to investigation. The cases resulted in large fines, up to £19,500, for several men and two businesses.
The report comes at a time of increased focus on animal welfare standards, with two high-profile exposés in pig abattoirs in recent weeks.