CCTV in abattoirs improves welfare, report finds
Mandatory CCTV in abattoirs was introduced in 2018.
A review into the Government’s introduction of mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses has found that they have had a positive impact on animal welfare.
The five-year post-implementation review, produced by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), concluded that the legislation has improved animal welfare by providing crucial evidence to support the enforcement of legal welfare standards.
Evidence from CCTV footage has been used in one in three suspensions or revocations between 2020 and 2021.
The report, which took into account the views of retail, industry and animal welfare groups, found that CCTV had helped provide assurance that abattoirs were being operated at high welfare standards. The footage has also proven beneficial for training and quality assurance.
Mandatory CCTV was introduced in 2018 in response to several cases in which undercover filming revealed animal cruelty and abuse in abattoirs.
The legislation was supported by multiple animal welfare organisations, including Compassion in World Farming, World Horse Welfare and the RSPCA. The British Veterinary Association also supports the law.
CCTV has since become mandatory in Scottish slaughterhouses from July 2021, however is not yet compulsory in Wales or Northern Ireland. The Welsh government has launched a consultation into the issue.
The UK Government’s 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.”
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
