Risk of rising slaughter charges
UK - Small abattoirs could be forced to raise the cost of slaughter or risk going out of business if a Treasury proposal to recover the full costs of veterinary inspections of animals and carcasses is implemented, the Forum of Private Business has warned.
23 August 2006
2 minute read
The Food Standards Agency is developing proposals, in consultation with the industry, on possible changes to charging arrangements for meat hygiene controls and the possible introduction of charges for Specific Risk Material controls.
Small abattoirs are charged an average amount for each animal inspected rather than a full veterinary fee, which can be as much as £90/hour.
Large abattoirs, which can handle 60 animals an hour, are capable of absorbing the full fees.
But small abattoirs, slaughtering as few as 30 or 40 animals a week, are likely to struggle, says the FPB.
Source: FWi
