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Introduced Mandatory CCTV In All Abattoirs In England Has Been Proven To Be Effective New Report Shows
1 year ago 
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A five-year post-Implementation Review published today has revealed the positive impact of the government’s introduction of CCTV in slaughterhouses.
Taking into account views from industry, animal welfare groups and retailers, the review’s findings suggest mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses has improved animal welfare because it is used as evidence to support enforcement action, including prosecutions, when breaches of animal welfare legislation take place.
The findings include:
- In 2020/21, CCTV recordings were instrumental in one in every three suspensions / revocations of slaughterers’ Certificates of Competence.
- Evidence to suggest that CCTV has played an important role in providing assurance to retailers, assurance scheme operators and the public that slaughterhouses are operating at high welfare standards.
- Evidence of the effectiveness of CCTV for use as a training and quality assurance tool.
Farming Minister Mark Spencer said:
“We are committed to ensuring all animals are treated with the utmost respect at all stages of life.
“I am pleased to see that this legislation is proving to be effective in upholding our commitment and is providing assurance to retailers and the public that the great British meat industry they support is maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.”
The Food Standards Agency recently secured three successful prosecutions in animal welfare cases where CCTV played a fundamental role in identifying potential offences that were subsequently referred to investigation. The cases resulted in large fines, up to £19,500, for several men and two businesses.
The report can be found here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/556/resources
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