Dear Constituent,

Thank you for contacting me about the production of pâté de foie gras.

The production of foie gras from ducks or geese using force feeding raises has been banned in the UK for over 15 years following the introduction of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 which brought forward a legal requirement to provide for an animal’s welfare needs, such as supplying a suitable diet and protecting the animal from injury and disease. Under this legislation, it is a criminal offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to an animal.

Regarding the sale and import of foie gras, the Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare sets out the Government’s vision to introduce a range of world-leading reforms to improve the welfare and conservation of animals at home and abroad.

Through this Action Plan, ministers have committed to building a clear evidence base to inform decisions on the import or sale of foie gras.

Personally, I think the import and sale of foie gras should be allowed.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.

Yours,

EDWARD LEIGH MP