The Welfare of Livestock (Amendment) Regulations 1998

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations replace with amendments Schedule 2 of the Welfare of Livestock Regulations 1994 which contains provisions relating to the welfare of calves. The Regulations implement Council Directive 91/629/EEC (laying down minimum standards for the protection of calves) (OJ No. L340, 11.12.91, p.28) as amended by Council Directive 97/2/EC (amending Directive 91/629/EEC laying down minimum standards for the protection of calves) (OJ No. L25, 28.1.97, p.24) and Commission Decision 97/182/EC (amending the Annex to Directive 91/629/EEC laying down minimum standards for the protection of calves) (OJ No. L76, 24.2.97, p.30).

The Regulations introduce a mandatory requirement to keep calves in groups after the age of eight weeks (except where certified by a veterinarian). The method of calculating space allowance in individual stalls and pens is redefined and space allowances for calves housed in groups are increased. Individual stalls and pens housing calves must allow tactile as well as visual contact. The requirements relating to group housing, space allowances and tactile and visual contact do not apply before 1st January 2004 for accommodation in use before 1st January 1998.

Tethering is no longer permitted except in respect of group-housed calves for a short period during feeding. Calves which are housed must now be inspected twice daily and all calves must be fed twice daily. Higher standards are set for the provision of dietary iron and fibre. A new requirement that calves should receive colostrum within the first six hours of life is introduced.

A Regulatory Appraisal has been prepared and placed in the library of each House of Parliament. Copies can be obtained from the Animal Welfare Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Government Buildings, Hook Rise South, Tolworth, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 7NF.