Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department are taking to encourage poultry farmers to keep their animals in free range environments.

All poultry farms are protected by comprehensive animal health and welfare legislation. The Government fully supports consumer choice and the requirement for clear labelling on egg packaging provides the information for consumers to make that choice.

We are currently consulting on a new statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Laying Hens, which provides improved and up-to-date guidance for owners and keepers on how to comply with legislation relating to all permitted production systems. This reflects the latest scientific and veterinary advice and should lead to enhanced laying hen welfare.