Survey launched on impact of small abattoir closures
© Tim Scrivener Farmers are being urged to complete an online survey about the role of abattoirs in their businesses with the view to collect evidence on how the closures of such abattoirs have affected farmers.
The survey, led by the Abattoir Sector Group, the Soil Association, the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) and others follows a call for evidence from the Food Standards Agency last September regarding the discount for small abattoirs.
See also: Plans for new abattoir get funding boost in Orkney
While a briefing through the Abattoir Sector Group previously highlighted key issues, there is now a need for more detailed data to support the ongoing case with particular emphasis on the impact of the small abattoir discount on meat inspection charges.
Concern within the industry is growing that the discount, which can cover up to 90% of charges for some abattoirs, could be under threat.
According to the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers, 40% of small to medium-sized abattoirs would close without this financial support.
Adrian Steele, organic sector development adviser for the Soil Association, warned: “If the small abattoir discount is removed, it will have the opposite effect, and will devastate local food economies throughout England and Wales.”
Christopher Price, RBST chief executive, said: “There is little point in government claiming to support farming if it removes or significantly reduces the small abattoir discount.”
National Craft Butchers has warned that all of its small abattoir members would shut down.
This could severely impact consumer access to local meat, animal welfare, and the future of farming and rural businesses.
Declining stock numbers
This comes amid concerns about declining livestock numbers.
A decrease in livestock numbers could disrupt the wider supply chain, affecting hauliers, markets, and abattoirs.
Megan Perry, head of policy and campaigns at the Sustainable Food Trust, said: “We need to hear directly from those on the frontlines of farming to understand how abattoirs are important for their businesses and what the impact would be of losing the services they provide.”
The survey will be open from 5 March until 21 March. It can be found here: