Slaughterhouses

(asked on 7th June 2018) - View Source

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether he is taking steps to encourage farmers to use local small abattoirs for slaughter; and if he will make statement.


Answered by
George Eustice Portrait
George Eustice
This question was answered on 13th June 2018

The Government values the important role that small and medium sized abattoirs play in meeting the needs of specialist livestock producers, and those in the more remote areas of the country. An adequate network of abattoirs throughout England is important for supporting livestock production, and we are aware of the decline in their numbers over recent years. This is a result of consolidation in the retail sector and a drive for greater efficiency and higher meat hygiene standards in abattoirs. These are commercial considerations outside of the Government’s control. The Government is nevertheless keen that an appropriate network of abattoirs continues to support sustainable livestock production. However, we cannot influence farmers on where they choose to send their livestock for slaughter, because this is a personal choice and is dictated by ease of access and costs.

Reticulating Splines