You may have seen adverts recently featuring the phrase “I Don’t Buy It”, talking about the way the meat industry calls gassing pigs “humane slaughter”.  

Project Slingshot's campaign is backed by celebrities including Diane Morgan and the McCartneys. It includes posters on the Tube in London aimed at banning the use of carbon dioxide as a method of killing pigs.  

It’s an issue we had already raised with the Scottish Government after experts called for it to be stopped.  

What’s the problem with gassing? 

CO₂ gas dissolves in the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth and lungs, forming acid. This is likely to be extremely painful for the pigs.  

Inhalation of the gas also leads to pigs feeling they cannot breathe, which experts say causes anxiety, frustration, fear and panic.  

There are less stressful alternative methods of slaughter we could move to.  

Another major cause of pig suffering: farrowing crates 

These cruel cages trap mother pigs, preventing them properly caring for their young. In the last session of the Scottish Parliament the Scottish Government promised a consultation. But this never materialised. We got as far as a roundtable discussion with ministers and the industry, but progress has stalled.  

As for the response we got from the Scottish Government on CO2 stunning?   

The agriculture minister said:  

“We are carefully considering the recommendations in the report, and will continue to work with all stakeholders, including animal welfare organisations, before deciding upon any action to be taken. As you know from the recent summit focusing on farrowing crates, I was very pleased to see the commitment of all parties, including OneKind, to engage in open and constructive discussions to improve pig welfare. Please be assured of this government’s commitment to improving the welfare of pigs and other animals in Scotland.”   

As the old expression goes: deeds not words.  

So, let’s see if the new government is ready to convert those fine words into deeds.    

Pigs: a glaring omission from the SNP manifesto 

Crucially, the SNP manifesto during the recent election campaign had nothing to say on this issue. So, all eyes are now on Gillian Martin, the new Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Rural Affairs, and Jim Fairlie, the returning agriculture minister. We have written to them seeking meetings, and the welfare of farmed pigs will be one of the issues we raise with them.  

Looking ahead: the Programme for Government 

The next thing to look out for will be the Programme for Government, usually published in early September. This outlines the Scottish Government’s priorities for the coming year, so it’s vital we see strong action for animals in there. Keep your eyes peeled for ways you can influence this – we are working on an easy action you can take.  

Fight alongside us 

I remember last summer one supporter, Eileen, sending in a donation with a handwritten note. She explained she used to enjoy bacon and eggs but no longer, because of the way we treat pigs. Her note ended with a PS: “Please give my money to the pigs.”  

I know Eileen’s emotional connection to other sentient creatures is shared by the amazing community of supporters we have at OneKind. We will continue to press the government. Because of our track record of using evidence and engaging in constructive dialogue, I know we will be listened to.   

If you’re not already signed up for updates from us, please do so. We’ll let you know when there’s news about issues such as this and give you easy ways to add your voice. Together, we can bring about a Scotland where every animal is freed from suffering. 

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Jason