BFREPA Welcomes Regional Housing Order but Calls for GB-Wide Action

Published on : 28 Oct 2025

The British Free Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) has welcomed the decision by DEFRA to introduce a regional housing order from 00:01 AM on Thursday 30 October 2025 within defined areas of England in response to the ongoing threat of avian influenza.

However, BFREPA has expressed disappointment that the measure has not been extended across the whole of England, Wales, and Scotland, arguing that a GB-wide housing order would provide greater protection for free range poultry and ensure consistency for farmers across all nations.

Gary Ford, BFREPA Head of Strategy and Producer Engagement, said:

“We welcome DEFRA’s decision to take decisive action in areas most affected by avian influenza. However, this remains a really testing and extremely worrying time for free range egg producers across the whole of the UK.

“A consistent, UK-wide housing order would not only offer stronger protection for free range birds but also provide clarity and fairness for farmers, wherever they are based. Producers are all facing similar risks, and a joined-up approach would give the sector much-needed reassurance and confidence at an extremely difficult time, and so early in the bird flu season.”

While Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland continue to follow their own decision-making processes, BFREPA is urging devolved governments to work in close coordination with DEFRA to ensure a coherent and effective national response.

BFREPA continues to support its members through guidance, updates, and engagement with government and industry partners to protect both bird welfare and the sustainability of free range egg production during this challenging period. The welfare of our flocks - and the livelihoods and mental wellbeing of those who care for them - remain our top priority.


Notes to editors:
There have been 9 cases during the current avian influenza “season”, which started on 1 October 2025.

5 of these cases were confirmed between Friday 25th October and Monday 27th October.

5 of the 9 cases are in laying hens of which 4 were free range hence our concern at the escalating situation.