The RSPCA is to contribute evidence and arguments in a judicial review brought by animal rights organisation The Humane League UK, which is challenging Defra over the legality of fast-growing broiler chickens.
The animal welfare charity said it had serious health and welfare concerns about fast-growing broiler breeds.
Now the RSPCA has been given permission from Mr Justice Bourne to act as an ‘intervener’ in the judicial review being brought by The Humane League UK at the High Court in May by providing evidence on the welfare issues of fast-growing breeds of chickens, and lack of clarity of the animal welfare laws.
The case challenges the UK Government on the legality of chicken breeds that have been selected to grow fast.
The RSPCA said some breeds are more likely to die or need to be culled due to ill health, develop sores on their legs, and struggle to walk properly.