In the UK, decapod crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters and prawns have little protection under animal welfare legislation. This means they are subjected to inhumane practices that would be considered unacceptable for other animals, for example, they are boiled alive and sent live in the post.
Recently the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act was passed in the UK with decapods included in the definition of animal for the first time. While this historic recognition of their sentience is a hugely important step forward, animals like crabs and lobsters need and deserve further, significant welfare improvements.
Alongside the 2019 manifesto, the Conservative ...
In the UK, decapod crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters and prawns have little protection under animal welfare legislation. This means they are subjected to inhumane practices that would be considered unacceptable for other animals, for example, they are boiled alive and sent live in the post.
Recently the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act was passed in the UK with decapods included in the definition of animal for the first time. While this historic recognition of their sentience is a hugely important step forward, animals like crabs and lobsters need and deserve further, significant welfare improvements.
Alongside the 2019 manifesto, the Conservative Party also committed to the Action Plan for Animal Welfare to consider further protections for decapod crustaceans following recognition of their sentience. To achieve these protections, decapods must now be included in all relevant animal welfare laws, such as the Animal Welfare Acts, the Animals in Scientific Procedures Acts and regulations for commercial transport and killing.
A new Prime Minister has just been selected: Rishi Sunak. Sunak has already made some commitments to animal welfare. He has pledged to ban live animal exports, to ban the import of hunting trophies, and to support the Kept Animals Bill. He will continue to review the fur trade and has no plans to alter the Hunting Act. He has also shown support for Defra’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare – an important report which sets out the government’s plans, aims and ambitions for animal welfare. It is crucial that decapod welfare is amongst these commitments.
To ensure that the welfare of decapod crustaceans continues to be improved, we’ve prepared a letter to be sent to the new Prime Minister.
The new Prime Minister must understand how strongly voters feel about protecting animals from suffering. Make your voice heard early by sending your letters now! It only takes a minute. #ActionForAnimals
To find out more about Crustacean Compassion’s work to protect decapod crustaceans, visit our website at www.crustaceancompassion.org.uk and sign up to our mailing list to stay updated with campaign news, appeals and ways to take action to protect decapods!
Liz Truss is officially the new UK Prime Minister. We need to ensure animal welfare isn’t forgotten and that the welfare of decapod crustaceans continues to be improved. Send a letter to Liz Truss asking her to prioritise animal welfare and take #ActionForAnimals!