UK's trade in breeding chicks may not be covered by planned live export 'ban'

Proposed new post-Brexit rules may apply only to animals being sent for slaughter and fattening, not breeding stock

The export of tens of millions of chicks every year from the UK may not fall under a promised "ban" on live exports, as the majority of the trade is for breeding stock.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs told the Guardian that the new rules would include poultry, but specified that they would be applied to animals being sent abroad for slaughter. A spokesperson said: "The government has committed to ending excessively long journeys for live animals, including poultry, going for slaughter and fattening. We will shortly launch a public consultation outlining our plans to improve animal welfare in transport, and encourage as many people as possible to share their views to help shape future policy."