Vets want non-stun killing ban

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) maintains its desire to see nonstun slaughter outlawed in the UK – and it has advised consumers that they can be most confident on the welfare provenance of their meat by choosing products covered by farm assurance schemes.

Speaking at this week’s BVA dinner in the Scottish Parliament, BVA president Simon Do her ty said welfare at slaughter remained a concern for members.

He said that while he was aware that there was no non-stun slaughter taking place in Scotland, assurance schemes offered shoppers peace of mind. “These do not permit nonstun slaughter and are the best indicator of veterinary involvement, environmental protection and high welfare across the pro c - ess,” said Doherty.

Following discussions with UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove, he said that while the association maintained its opposition to non-stun slaughter, it would also focus on “pragmatic asks” where “definite scope for move - ment” existed.

The BVA would, said Doherty, push for slaughter information to be included on label ling to allow consumers make a more informed choice and that the organ is ation would push for a ban on the export of non-stun slaughtered meat.

“We are pleased that the UK government seems to be listening and open to considering what changes can be made” said Doherty. •Moray vet Kathleen Robertson wa selected President of the BVA’ S Scottish branch prior to the dinner.

A University of Glasgow graduate with expe - rience in farm animal, equine and small animal practice, anaesthesia and more recently veterinary business and politics, Robertson sits on the Scottish Anti microbial Stewardship Group, the Livestock Health Scotland Board and the Veterinary Delivery Landscape project.