Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill mandates that producers, suppliers, and retailers of meat in England and Wales clearly display information about whether the animal was killed according to religious rites without prior stunning. It also requires the Secretary of State to conduct a review and publish a report on the sales of such meat and the proportion of the population observing relevant religious practices.

Description

The bill introduces a legal duty for those involved in the production, supply, and sale of meat in England and Wales to clearly and visibly display information indicating if the animal was slaughtered according to religious rites without prior stunning (e.g., Halal or Kosher). This information must be easily legible and not obscured.

The Secretary of State must commission a review within 30 days of the Act's passing. This review will analyze the sales of meat where animals were killed without prior stunning, considering both the volume and the proportion of the population adhering to such religious practices. A report including findings, recommendations, and the government's response must be presented to Parliament within 90 days of the review's commencement.

The definition of "killing in accordance with religious rites without prior stunning" is taken from the Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (England) Regulations 2015.

Government Spending

The bill's impact on government spending is not specified in the text. However, there will be costs associated with the Secretary of State commissioning and conducting a review, producing and publishing a report. No figures are given.

Groups Affected

The bill will primarily affect:

• Meat producers: Required to label meat products clearly.
• Meat suppliers: Required to ensure clear labeling throughout the supply chain.
• Meat retailers: Required to display clear and visible information to consumers.
• Consumers: Will have access to clearer information about meat sourcing and slaughter methods.
• Religious communities: May see increased transparency regarding religiously compliant meat products.