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Close the Loophole

Close the Loophole

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Nephrops (langoustines) are now classed as sentient animals. This means the government recognises that, like other animals, they too can suffer fear and pain.

Despite this, langoustines routinely have their tails ripped off (to be served as scampi) whilst alive and fully conscious. How is this possible?

Because although langoustines have been legally recognised as sentient, they are given no protections in law. With over 337 million langoustines caught by UK vessels every year, this "loophole" has the potential to result in significant suffering.

Watch our short film to see why the government must urgently Close the Loophole and protect all decapod crustaceans under the existing Animal Welfare Act and for each of the UK nations to end this cruelty by issuing guidance for fishing vessels.

Nephrops (langoustines) are now classed as sentient animals. This means the government recognises that, like other animals, they too can suffer fear and pain.

Despite this, langoustines routinely have their tails ripped off (to be served as scampi) whilst alive and fully conscious. How is this possible?

Because although langoustines have been legally recognised as sentient, they are given no protections in law. With over 337 million langoustines caught by UK vessels every year, this "loophole" has the potential to result in significant suffering.

Watch our short film to see why the government must urgently Close the Loophole and protect all decapod crustaceans under the existing Animal Welfare Act and for each of the UK nations to end this cruelty by issuing guidance for fishing vessels.

Call on the government to Close the Animal Welfare Loophole

As sentient animals langoustines, and all decapod crustaceans, should receive greater protection in law.

I therefore support this petition calling on the government to Close The Loophole, including decapod crustaceans in the existing Animal Welfare Act.

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