The government accepts this recommendation. The government shares the public’s high regard for the UK’s environmental protections, food standards and animal welfare. As set out in the UK’s Trade Strategy, the government will not lower food standards and will uphold high animal welfare standards. We recognise concerns about methods of production, such as sow stalls and battery cages, which are not permitted in the UK. Animal welfare is a global issue. As set out in our animal welfare strategy, the government will continue to champion the importance of high standards of animal welfare and promote best practice around the world. We will keep working collaboratively with our international partners as part of this to promote robust standards nationally and internationally.