Thanks to “strong evidence” proving that Octopus, lobster, and crabs feel pain, the U.K. has implemented new legislation which recognizes them as sentient beings. This month, the U.K. government issued a release about the legislation:
- Crabs, octopus and lobsters to be recognised as sentient beings in government policy decision making
- Decapod crustaceans and cephalopod mollusks will be recognised under the scope of the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill
- Amendment to Bill follows London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) scientific research findings on decapod and cephalopod sentience
- Existing industry practices will not be affected and there will be no direct impact on shellfish catching or in restaurant kitchens
Animal Welfare Minister Lord Zac Goldsmith said:
“The UK has always led the way on animal welfare and our Action Plan for Animal Welfare goes even further by setting out our plans to bring in some of the strongest protections in the world for pets, livestock and wild animals.”
Adding:
“The Animal Welfare Sentience Bill provides a crucial assurance that animal wellbeing is rightly considered when developing new laws. The science is now clear that decapods and cephalopods can feel pain and therefore it is only right they are covered by this vital piece of legislation.”
One only needs to watch My Octopus Teacher on Netflix to see just how intelligent these magical creatures truly are.
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