Euro-MP welcomes EU animal welfare action plan

10.34.40am GMT Tue 31st Jan 2006

Concrete measures to improve the protection and welfare of animals over the next five years have been outlined in a new Action Plan on the protection and welfare of animals, adopted by the European Commission.

The Action Plan aims to ensure that animal welfare is addressed in the most effective manner possible over the coming years, in all EU sectors and through relations with countries outside the EU.

Graham Watson, Lib Dem MEP for South West England and Gibraltar welcomed the action plan, saying:

"For the period 2006-2010, five main areas of action are set out to meet this objective: upgrading minimum standards for animal welfare; promoting research and alternative approaches to animal testing; introducing standardised animal welfare indicators; better informing animal handlers and the general public on animal welfare issues; and supporting international initiatives for the protection of animals. In my twelve years as an MEP I have received thousands of letters from constituents concerned about animal welfare - I think all will agree with me that the EU action plan is an important step forward."

The Action Plan, which was called for by the European Parliament and the Council, aims to clarify existing EU legislation on animal welfare, while putting forward proposals for areas where sufficient action is currently lacking. It also aims to ensure that full regard is paid to animal welfare in related policy fields such as agriculture, environmental policies, research and chemicals' testing, in line with the Protocol on Protection and Welfare of Animals annexed to the EU Treaty. Future animal welfare policies will continue to be founded on the best available scientific advice, taking into account public expectations, socio-economic consequences and trade concerns. A Eurobarometer opinion poll and an internet consultation by the Commission have revealed widespread public support for EU action on animal welfare.