TWELVE years ago, the European Union law makers decided that all battery hens must be housed in larger cages, with perches and a scratching area to much improve animal welfare.

This was to become law by January 1, for all member nations. Thirteen members have still not complied with these laws, and three countries – Spain, Italy and Poland – have ignored these rules and have no intention of complying.

This is typical of so much EU law. It is vital that the great British buying public avoids illegally produced eggs imported into the UK. EU law does not allow us to ban the importation of these illegal eggs, but it cannot prevent housewives boycotting these products.

Our farmers have invested millions of pounds in new cages and facilities, and cannot compete with the mass production under awful conditions continuing in much of Europe, and they will go bust unless we support them.

David Quarrie, Lynden Way, Holgate, York.