Carbon dioxide stunning of pigs

We are seeking views on proposals to:

• phase out the use of carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas stunning of pigs in slaughterhouses and knacker’s yards in the UK
• agree an appropriate length of transition period before any proposed ban might come into force

The proposed options include:

• do nothing
• ban carbon dioxide (CO₂) stunning of pigs  
• with transition periods considered: 
• transition in 2 years 
• transition in 3 years 

This is a joint consultation between the Welsh, UK, Scottish and Northern Ireland governments. It is led by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).