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Written question asked by Lord Hart of Tenby (Conservative) on Monday, 16 March 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 30 March 2026. It was answered by Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Labour) on Monday, 23 March 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Slaughterhouses: Inspections

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure the future of small and medium sized abattoirs following the Food Standards Agency's announcement on 27 February of increases to inspection charges at meat premises for 2026/27.

Answer

Defra recognises the important role small and medium sized abattoirs play in supporting local livestock producers and maintaining a resilient and competitive food supply chain.

Following the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) recent announcement on meat inspection charges for 2026/27, Defra has been engaging closely with the FSA and industry to ensure the implications for smaller plants are fully understood. The Government will continue to work with industry as the FSA implements reforms to its system of discounts on charges following a 12-week public consultation launched on 19 March. Under the proposals, the FSA would be able to target government support more effectively towards smaller abattoirs while minimising barriers to business growth and providing better value for public money. More smaller abattoirs would also benefit from the maximum 90% discount on their charges.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL15585
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Food Standards Agency Fees and charges Inspections Slaughterhouses
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk