The parliamentary session focused on the draft Free-Range Egg Marketing Standards (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2024. The amendment revolves around the critical removal of the 16-week derogation period. This would allow free-range eggs to continue being marketed as such during mandatory housing measures triggered by disease outbreaks like avian influenza. Previously, beyond the derogation period, these eggs would have to be labelled barn eggs, impacting producer costs and logistics amidst such outbreaks. The amendment seeks to align England’s regulations with Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and the EU, where similar changes have already been effected.

Structure:

• Introduction and rationale for the draft regulations
• Comparison with international standards and consultation outcomes
• Contributions from various members highlighting support and concerns

Outcome:

• The draft regulation was agreed upon with no opposition, reflecting cross-party agreement on the necessity of the amendment.

Key Statistics and Context:

• 70% support from consultees for the amendment
• Previous instances of mandatory housing lasting over 16 weeks in 2021-2022 and 2022-2023
• EU's removal of the 16-week derogation in 2023