The first level would label foods that comply with minimum European Union standards of animal welfare. The second, would be a kind of welfare-plus scheme, which would be voluntary.

The welfare-plus idea might include a starred ranking system - with more stars being awarded to the more stringent European Union producers.

This is not a passing fancy of the commissioner’s; £11.6m has been linked to the concept.

However, some continental trade and producer organisations have criticised the plans and particularly a reported comment by the commissioner that an animal welfare labelling system will not be a cost burden but an extra opportunity.

• What do you think? Would such a scheme be good for Britain or would it bureaucratize something that is best left to market forcers? Please email your thoughts to the NPA FORUM.