The report, which was commissioned by Animal Aid and published by Sheffield Hallam University, sets out the need for independent CCTV monitoring, how the proposed system would be implemented and the costs involved.

The report is recommending a pilot scheme to establish an effective programme, which would take effect in all slaughterhouses across England. The estimated cost for all abattoirs around the country would be in the region of £150,000 and £370,000 per annum.

Costs would be covered accordingly by either retailers and/or the slaughter industry, or by a government agency and an independent agency, such as the RSPCA. The report says these costs would be a “modest investment” for significant animal welfare benefits.

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The report is proposing a levy on each carcase processed to cover the cost of the programme and continuous running costs.

Calling for change

In 2015, over 112,000 people signed the petition for the introduction of the CCTV, along with 145 British MPs.

Between the years 2009 and 2014, Animal Aid carried out 10 undercover investigations in UK slaughterhouses. The probe found that nine of the 10 abattoirs were breaking animal welfare laws and cruelty was widespread.

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