Fed: Ministers slammed for not banning battery hens

AAP General News (Australia)
08-18-2000
Fed: Ministers slammed for not banning battery hens

Australia's agriculture ministers have been criticised by animal welfare groups for
rejecting a proposal to phase out battery cages for hens.

Federal, state and territory ministers have decided the economic interests of egg producers
and consumers are just as important as the welfare of hens.

RSPCA president HUGH WIRTH says they have missed a golden opportunity and have condemned
layer hens to a future of unquestionably cruel confinement.

And Australian Democrats Senator ANDREW BARTLETT says today's decision will portray
Australia as a nation that doesn't care about animals.

But Australian Egg Industry Association president HUGH MCMASTER says the ministers
have shown strong leadership in the face of considerable political pressure.

AAP RTV sc/wjf/jn

KEYWORD: HENS (BRISBANE)

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