HALAL AND SHECHITA SLAUGHTER

Early day motion 32, tabled 26 November 2003 by Baroness May of Maidenhead (Conservative). Signed by 59 members.

That this House, while wanting to see every practical effort made to improve the welfare of farmed animals, also believes that freedom of religion is integral to a free society; recognises the importance of halal and shechita methods of slaughter to Britain's Muslim and Jewish communities; expresses concern that reported proposals, however well-intentioned, from the Farm Animal Welfare Council may impose unacceptable restrictions on religious freedom; and calls upon the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to defend the liberty of religious minorities.

Signatures by party: Conservative 51, DUP 2, UUP 2, Independent Conservative 1, Independent Ulster Unionist 1, Labour 1, Plaid Cymru 1.