The government's proposals for a UK-wide ban on cages for laying hens, pullets and breeder layers would apply to all poultry producers, including those with fewer than 350 birds.
A phased approach has been put forward which would see an initial ban on installing any new enriched colony (or any other cage) systems for laying hens, pullets and breeder layers from 1 January 2027.
A ban in the UK could lead to the import of eggs and egg products produced in cage systems that would be illegal in this country.
This issue does not only apply to cage egg producers. The legislation will also affect organic, free range and barn egg producers (As it may affect laying parent flocks and will potentially impact the current premiums eggs from those eggs attract, by removing the 'value' option).
NFU response
The NFU has submitted its response to the government's consultation. During the consultation period, the NFU heard concerns from members at several member meetings over the impact of an outright ban on imports and standards, the proposed transition period – something the NFU is clear is unworkable – and inadvertently pitting one production system against another.
In its response, the NFU strongly opposes the proposals. NFU National Poultry Board Chair Will Raw said: “All current production systems in operation in the UK can deliver good welfare when properly managed and enriched colony cages provide an affordable and nutritious source of protein to a growing population meaning eggs produced in these systems positively contribute to wider food security and environmental goals.
“These are areas which sadly do not appear to have been acknowledged sufficiently by the government in their proposals.”
Hear more from Will and read an executive summary of the NFU's response.