Green MP calls out Government over low-welfare imports

23rd January 2026

Adrian Ramsay says Government is 'importing cruelty' and not allowing British farmers a 'level playing field'

Adrian Ramsay MP,  Waveney Valley, has criticised the Government for an incoherent system that undermines British farmers and animal welfare.

Speaking in Parliament, Adrian highlighted the contradiction that the UK rightfully bans many cruel farming practices, yet imports produced in the same way remain legal.

Contributing to the debate, Adrian said: 
"What is illegal to produce here because it is too cruel remains legal to import and sell. It undermines public confidence and leaves higher-welfare British farmers facing unfair competition," he said.

UK farmers operate some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world, yet imports of pork, poultry, lamb, and eggs from countries with lower standards have soared. Trade deals risk widening the gap, while public support for banning low-welfare imports is overwhelming.

"According to the RSPCA and Compassion in World Farming, 95 per cent of countries with UK market access have lower animal welfare standards than the UK. HMRC data shows non-EU imports of eggs have more than tripled since 2020, poultry imports have risen by 60%, and pork imports by over 80%. In trade discussions with the United States, Ministers have focused on food safety and sanitary standards, but this narrow focus risks leaving a huge loophole for imports produced in ways that would be illegal here, widening the welfare gap instead of closing it," Adrian added.

Adrian called on the Government to ensure all animal products sold in the UK, domestic or imported, meet British welfare standards and carry clear welfare labelling, closing the loophole once and for all.

Adrian also continues to press for further improvements in UK welfare standards such as ending the use of farrowing crates and cages - with real support for farmers for this transition.
ENDS