OneKind is calling for urgent action from the European Commission to prevent several major EU nations flouting the barren battery cage ban when it comes into force on 1 January 2012.
Figures we have obtained show a real lack of progress and, in some cases, inability to report reliable figures. The figures show the expected numbers of hens in the different laying systems as of 1st January 2012 when the ban on battery cages comes into force in the EU.
Italy and Spain are among the nations unable to provide reliable figures, and the numbers from France show an estimated 6.1 million hens still in barren battery cages at the turn of the year.
These figures are extremely worrying for the welfare of hens in the EU.
Barren battery cages do not allow for hens to stretch their wings or exhibit many other natural behaviours. The EU is taking the lead by banning these cages from 1 January 2012. It is essential they stand firm and put pressure on national governments to make sure their farmers are ready for the ban.
Italy is among six nations which have not even supplied figures to the Commission detailing how many hens will be in the illegal battery cages on 1st January. Poland will have more than 4.4 million hens in the banned cages. Portugal will still have more than 2.5 million barren battery hens out of the country’s 6.5 million commercial laying stock.
EU member states have had since 1999 to prepare for the ban on barren battery cages. That is more than enough time to make the necessary changes. They must take urgent action to ensure they are ready for the ban.
According to Commission figures, UK egg farmers will be fully compliant with the ban.