The UK government is contemplating lifting restrictions that would permit private companies to work with genetically edited cattle, a move that has sparked concerns regarding animal welfare. The Nuffield Bioethics Council has warned that this could potentially increase the suffering of livestock and is calling for a thorough government review and public consultation. The council recommends the establishment of breeding standards, an independent body to monitor the long-term effects of genetic changes on animals, and a food labeling system with detailed information on breeding. The government has assured that any relaxation of regulations will be science-based and will not compromise animal safety or welfare standards.