Scotland to introduce mandatory CCTV for all slaughterhouses

Rural Affairs Minister, Mairi Gougeon, said that this announcement is part of the Scottish Government’s plan to “improve further the already high standards” of the Scottish livestock sector. The legislation will be introduced to the Scottish Parliament this year.

The announcement follows a consultation where in which the majority of respondents support the introduction of mandatory CCTV in all areas of slaughterhouses where animals are handled.

Last year, CCTV for abattoirs in England became mandatory following a lengthy campaign for independently monitored CCTV for all slaughterhouses by animal protection groups. Animal Aid has filmed undercover in 15 English abattoirs and found appalling practices and law breaking. Amongst the findings were animals being beaten and stamped on, stunning equipment being used to torture animals, animals having their throats hacked at with blunt knives whilst still fully conscious.

But it is important to remember that slaughter can never be humane. Even when no laws are broken, slaughter is a stressful, brutal and violent process. No animal wants to die and there is simply no need to rear and slaughter animals for food, since we can be happy and healthy on a plant-based diet.

We urge anybody who wants to help reduce animal suffering to go vegan.