Puppy farm ban promised by animal welfare strategy

The government is planning to end the use of hen cages as part of a raft of proposals to improve animal welfare standards in England.

The measures also include moving away from the use of pig farrowing crates, which contain sows during birth and nursing to stop them rolling over onto their young.

The National Farmers' Union said laws should also require imports to be produced to the same standards to prevent unfair competition for British farmers.

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said the package of reforms, which include banning trail hunting and puppy farming, was "the most ambitious animal welfare strategy in a generation", but the Conservatives said it showed Labour did not care about rural Britain.

Meanwhile, the RSPCA said a puppy farm ban could be a "real game-changer" and that it would work with the government on writing the legislation to "make sure there are no loopholes".

Puppy farming is a term used to describe the practice of keeping dogs in poor conditions where they produce multiple litters a year to maximise profits.

Animal rights campaigners say the practice can lead to long-term health issues in puppies.

It is not currently illegal to breed a large number of dogs. Breeders selling three or more litters a year in England, Wales and Northern Ireland must undergo an inspection to get a licence.

The government says it will launch a consultation on introducing a new registration scheme for all dog breeders, and on improving the health and welfare standards required for licences.