Is it true that cage rearing is still permitted, despite the fact that the movement restrictions associated with confinement are in blatant conflict with the welfare of these animals?

The issue of cages is often cited by activists as if it were a practice still in use. This criticism is specious because while chickens have never been cage-reared, for laying hens the replacement with other systems is an activity that started years ago and will be completed in 2026, because the total replacement of the old systems is being phased in gradually as the costs of adaptation are all borne by the farmers who are doing this and are well on their way.