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Every slaughterhouse in Britain will be forced to install CCTV cameras as part of a major Government clampdown on food standards and animal welfare.

The footage will be accessible to vets from the Food Standards Agency who will ensure the highest standards are being maintained, Ministers said.

And staff who are seen breaching welfare laws could face criminal charges.

The plan is part of a package of measures announced today by Environment Secretary Michael Gove designed to update animal welfare standards in the British food industry.

He hopes the plan will play down fears that Brexit will lead to a watering-down of British food standards with the arrival of products like US-style chlorine-washed chicken.

(Image: PA)

“We have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and the actions I am setting out today will reinforce our status as a global leader,” he said.

“As we prepare to leave the EU, these measures provide a further demonstration to consumers around the world that our food is produced to the very highest standards.”

British Veterinary Association President Gudrun Ravetz added: “Mandatory CCTV in all areas of slaughterhouses will provide an essential tool in fostering a culture of compassion that could help safeguard animal welfare.

"We are particularly pleased to see a commitment to Official Veterinarians having unrestricted access to footage.”