RSPCA calls for ban on 'gas chamber' slaughter of pigs by 2024

The RSPCA has joined calls for a ban on the so-called ‘gas chamber’ slaughter of pigs in abattoirs.

The animal welfare charity put their name to a joint statement with Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) to demand an end to the slaughter method by 2024.

Their call comes after the temporary closure of several slaughterhouses following a Europe-wide CO2 shortage.

Philip Lymbery, chief executive of CIWF, blasted the Government for failing to implement a 2003 recommendation to ban the practice from its own advisory body, the Farm Animal Welfare Council.

He said: ‘The slaughter method in question involves lowering pigs into a gas chamber containing CO2, causing them to gasp for breath and hyperventilate, causing pain and panic amongst the terrified animals.

‘This often goes on for 30-60 seconds or more.’

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The National Pig Association said gas stunning is the best way to slaughter pigs – if operated correctly – despite the Government’s environment agency Defra offering £400,000 to research projects willing to develop other ways to stun the animals.

A spokesman from the National Pig Association told Farmers Guardian: ‘We will of course support any research that seeks scientifically proven improved alternatives.

‘The pig industry takes animal welfare very seriously and believes good welfare is equally important at all stages of the pig’s life.’