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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent assessment her department has made on the effectiveness of farrowing crates for sows in rearing piglets.

The Government’s animal welfare strategy sets out that ending the use of farrowing crates is a key priority. The evidence around farrowing crates and piglet mortality is complex. Farrowing crates can reduce the risk of piglet crushing, but they also restrict sow movement, preventing her from turning around and performing normal behaviours such as mothering. The effects on overall piglet mortality can vary between housing systems and management practices. When we consult on a transition out of farrowing crates, we will include an assessment of piglet mortality rates for different options.