New poll shows 9 in 10 Brits support a ban on lower-welfare imports

A new survey from Bryant Research reveals that an overwhelming 89% of the British public believe that the UK should have the power to decide on the animal welfare standards of all animal products sold in the country including imports. Notably, when asked specifically about the European Union, the same percentage, 89%, agree that the standard should apply in trade deals. This data is particularly important given the risk in the EU-UK negotiations, currently underway.

Support for banning animal products that don’t meet UK standards is trending upwards, increasing from 84% in a similar poll in 2023. This position is also shared by the vast majority of British livestock farmers, with 92% of them supporting a ban on lower-welfare imports.

This degree of consensus on an issue is rare in the UK. According to Bryant Research, support for banning imports that don’t meet UK animal welfare standards surpasses the number of Brits who agree they like Christmas (78%), are comfortable with dogs (82%) or like pizza (84%). 

Brits want UK animal welfare standards upheld 

The data shows that a significant majority of Brits (88-91%) think the Government should ensure that only animal products meeting or exceeding UK standards are imported. Despite this clear mandate for upholding its animal welfare standards in trade, the UK’s ability to set and enforce its own standards is at risk. 

The UK is currently negotiating a new deal with the EU that could directly undermine this overwhelming public sentiment. Without securing specific provisions in the deal, the UK may lose the ability to block imports that don’t meet its animal welfare standards, both from the EU and third countries.

For a detailed analysis of possible implications of the deal, read our full explainer on the UK-EU Veterinary Agreement here.

A clear call to action

The evidence is clear: Brits overwhelmingly support banning imports that do not meet our animal welfare standards. 

The Government has a mandate, and must urgently secure provisions in the new UK-EU deal that safeguard the UK’s ability to set and enforce its own animal welfare standards. It should then use this ability to introduce comprehensive legislation requiring that all animal products imported into the UK meet our animal welfare standards. 

Send a message to the Agriculture Minister now.