FREEDOM FOOD

That this House welcomes the launch of Freedom Food, the pioneering animal welfare labelling initiative developed by the RSPCA in conjunction with leading retailers and producers; further welcomes this enterprise as a good example of partnership between charities and the private sector; recognises the support for animal welfare among consumers, and that research has shown that consumers are confused by unclear labelling; understands that 95 per cent. of consumers were strongly in favour of the Freedom Food concept; is pleased that for the first time consumers will be offered a clear choice of meat and dairy products that have been produced with high standards of animal husbandry and care; notes that the commercial opportunity for farmers who place a high regard for the care and protection of their animals and who want to promote quality British products by joining the Freedom Food scheme; and believes that the Freedom Food scheme provides a basis for a gradual and steady improvement in the welfare of Britain's 750 million farm animals.