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<p>We have delivered an ambitious legislative programme since the publication of the
Action Plan, which will deliver significant improvements for animals in the UK and
abroad. We are firmly committed to maintaining our strong track record on animal welfare
and to delivering continued improvements, both in the course of this Parliament and
beyond.</p><p> </p><p>Our recent announcement on delivering the measures in the Kept
Animals Bill through single measure Bills will help us to deliver two further commitments
in the plan, including the ban on live exports. These are our key priorities. We do
not consider the time is right to consult on cage reforms, being mindful of the challenges
the sectors are facing. The market is already driving the move away from using cages
for laying hen production. The proportion of eggs that come from caged hens has steadily
decreased from 47% of total throughput in Q4 2017, to 21% in Q1 2023.</p><p> </p><p>We
continue to work with the sector to maintain and enhance our high standards. The Government’s
animal welfare priorities for its Animal Health and Welfare Pathway include supporting
producers to transition away from confinement systems.</p>
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