UK takes further steps in implementing mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses
The legislation, that was first proposed in August 2017, will come into effect from May 2018, once it passes through Parliament, at which point businesses will have six months to comply.
Businesses will have exactly six months to comply with this legislation. The penalty for failing to comply will be an enforcement notice to the business or prosecution.
Last year, a public consultation was launched on the subject of introducing mandatory CCTV in abattoirs in order to reassure consumers that the country's high welfare standards are being effectively enforced. The consultation results showed that 4,000 respondents, more than 99% were supportive of the plans.
"We have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and want to cement our status as a global leader by continuing to raise the bar," said Environment Secretary Michael Gove. "Introducing compulsory CCTV cameras in slaughterhouses is a further demonstration to consumers around the world that as we leave the EU, we continue to produce our food to the very highest standards," Mr. Gove added.
Mandatory CCTV cameras in England's slaughterhouses in all areas where live animals are present will ensure the unrestricted access to to the last 90 days of footage the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) Official Veterinarians (OVs). This will help them monitor and enforce animal welfare standards.
The FSA has strict processes in place for the approval of slaughterhouses, and specially trained vets carry out checks to make sure the welfare of animals is protected throughout their time in the slaughterhouse. If breaches are found, a slaughterhouse can be given a welfare enforcement notice, have its staff’s licenses suspended or revoked, or be referred for a criminal investigation.
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