100 signatures reached
To: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Stunning of animals prior to slaughter
End the exemptions from the Welfare at Slaughter Regulations for animals slaughtered for kosher and halal meat trades, so that all animals are protected from the pain and distress of having the blood vessels in their neck severed whilst conscious.
Why is this important?
Studies in anaesthetised calves have shown that cutting the blood vessels in the neck causes activity in the brain which indicates that pain would be present if the animal were conscious. This brain activity is prevented by effectively stunning calves with a captive bolt (concussion on the front of the skull). Imams in many countries accept that, as the stunning process does not cause death or stop the heart then it is acceptable for halal meat to be produced from animals that are stunned. Animal welfare legislation is not an infringement of religious freedom of expression and laws designed to protect animals should apply to all animals slaughtered in the UK. We petition the department to ensure that all animals are effectively stunned prior to slaughter.
How it will be delivered
Email, together with written evidence, to the Secretary of State and the Chief Veterinary Officer
