asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will specify the procedures that are used in the slaughter of animals for halal meat. [HL3769]

The procedures governing the slaughter of animals for halal meat are a matter for the Muslim authorities. In addition, Schedule 12 to the Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995, as amended, sets down specific safeguards when the halal method is used and animals are not stunned before slaughter. These safeguards deal with the restraint and handling of animals, the condition of the knife and the blood vessels that must be severed. Slaughter by the halal method must be carried out by a licensed slaughterman, in a slaughterhouse.