DEFRA quizzed over free-range perches
DEFRA is being challenged by the EU Commission again over its rules in relation to the provision of perches in free-range laying units.
Under DEFRA’s interpretation of the EU welfare regulations, free-range egg producers with flatbed systems in England and Wales do not have to install aerial perches, as the slatted floor is counted as perching space.
But Brussels maintains that slatted floor is not elevated and cannot therefore satisfy the behavioural needs of the birds.
These objections have been raised several times in the past, most recently in 2010.
DEFRA has always defended its position, arguing that providing perches in these buildings leads to higher levels of keel bone breakage, which compromises bird welfare.
The issue went quiet for a couple of years, but it is understood that, following an inspection visit last November, the commission has recently written to DEFRA requesting more information. Depending on the answers, it is possible that Brussels could take legal action.
In a statement, DEFRA said: “We have taken the view that a raised slatted floor can be classed as a perch in non-cage systems for many years. We are in talks with the commission about our interpretation of this legislation and are providing them with more information”.
It is understood that the British Egg Industry Council is working with DEFRA to build its response, providing information on the prevalence of flatbed systems compared with multi-tier, for which perches are not an issue.
The egg industry is concerned about both the cost and the welfare implications of forcing free-range egg producers to install perches retrospectively.
The Scottish Egg Producer Retailers Association explained that in Scotland it is already a requirement to provide birds with 15cm of perch space a bird.
Despite this, it is supporting DEFRA’s interpretation for England. “Our thinking is that our difference in specification and welfare, plus our SCO stamp on eggs, gives us a slight marketing advantage and added value,” it said.
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