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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will make it his policy to develop a strategy for wild-caught fish to (a) reduce stress during capture and handling and (b) improve the humane slaughter of those fish.

Defra is aware of the concerns relating to fish welfare and have offered to help bring together interested parties to discuss and further understand concerns.

We are committed to maintaining our high animal welfare standards and to keep improving where possible. We have made it clear that as we leave the EU we will maintain and enhance our reputation as a global leader on animal welfare.