Full Statute Name:  COUNCIL DIRECTIVE 93/119/EC of 22 December 1993 on the protection of animals at the

This directive reflects the EU's concern for a need to establish common minimum standards for the protection of animals at the time of slaughter or killing in order to ensure rational development of production and to facilitate the completion of the internal market in animals and animal products. The directive also states that at the time of slaughter or killing animals should be spared any avoidable pain or suffering.