Egg producers warned after two attempted break-ins

Egg producers have been warned to remain vigilant and review their security procedures after two attempted break-ins at major poultry sites.

It is understood that animal activists attempted to gain access to the sites in the past month, upping the ante after a public consultation was launched by Defra, which aims to phase out enriched cages for laying hens.

See also: Defra to end cage egg production and lift lamb welfare

While their efforts were thwarted when remote security systems alerted the owner at one site, the British Free Range Egg Producers Association (Bfrepa) urges caution.

Gary Ford, head of strategy at Bfrepa, said: “Producers should review their site security and ensure that their site is secure at all times.”

NFU Scotland policy manager Penny Middleton added: “Peaceful debate is part of a healthy democracy, but harassment and illegal activity directed at farming families is completely unacceptable.”

She added that Scottish egg producers already operate to some of the highest welfare standards in the world, with many investing in improved systems.

“We remain committed to supporting our members through this period of change and will continue to call for clarity, fairness, and a science-based approach in future policy decisions,” she said.

Activist tactics

Mr Ford added that producers should also brief any staff, particularly casual or weekend staff, on the risk, and be mindful that a common approach by activists is to enter sheds at night and film birds that are roosting to give the impression that the birds are kept in darkness, don’t go outdoors or are overstocked.

Another common activist tactic is to plant covert cameras in sheds and retrieve them at a later date in an attempt to discredit the farmer. 

“We recommend that producers contact their police force to identify who their local crime prevention officer is, with a view to meeting to discuss what security measures they can implement on their farm,” he said. 

Mr Ford added that there is a role for government to take tougher action against individuals who trespass and break into farms.