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Small Abattoirs
08 May 2025
Lead MP
Sarah Dyke
Glastonbury and Somerton
LD
Responding Minister
Daniel Zeichner
Tags
EconomyTaxationEmployment
Word Count: 9538
Other Contributors: 10
At a Glance
Sarah Dyke raised concerns about small abattoirs in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
I ask the Minister to ensure the continuation of the small abattoir discount on inspection charges so that small abattoirs can remain financially viable.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The abattoir industry is at crisis point, with just 60 small abattoirs left in the UK as of 2023. According to a 2022 Food Standards Agency report, small abattoirs are closing at an alarming rate of 10% per year. The remaining small abattoirs face immense challenges and increased costs, including rising energy costs and employer national insurance contributions.
Andrew Griffith
Con
Arundel and South Downs
Secured a £300,000 grant for an abattoir in Henfield through engagement with Horsham district council.
Ben Lake
PC
Ceredigion Preseli
Highlights the critical role of small abattoirs in Welsh economies and calls for Government support to ease regulatory burdens and retain cost discounts.
Daniel Zeichner
Lab
Cambridge
Responded to John Lamont, emphasizing that this Government upholds high standards and supports local producers through public sector procurement policies.
Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe
Acknowledged the importance of small abattoirs to the rural economy and thanked the lead MP for securing the debate.
Kieran Mullan
Con
Bexhill and Battle
Discussed the importance of small-scale abattoirs for local farmers, rare breeds, and conservation efforts. Highlighted financial pressures from increased FSA rates and called for further funding support.
Mullan
Con
Bexhill and Battle
Discussed specific challenges in the south-east related to energy and skills shortages.
John Lamont
Con
Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
As the MP for the Scottish Borders, he shares concerns about challenges faced by farmers and food producers. He agrees with the importance of local abattoirs in reducing carbon footprint and supporting the rural economy. Asked how supporting local food production aligns with the UK-US trade deal's increased market access for American products.
Katie Lam
Con
Weald of Kent
Details increased regulatory burden on farmers and small abattoirs, stressing their importance for local food supply chains and rural heritage preservation. Emphasised the need for fairness in the supply chain and advocated for small abattoirs to provide better services compared to larger ones.
Robbie Moore
Con
Keighley and Ilkley
Small abattoirs are a crucial part of the food supply chain, supporting rural economies by providing jobs and local produce. Their decline has led to 51% of farm businesses having to find new providers after closures.
Sarah Dyke
Lab
Croydon Central
Thanked Members for their contributions and highlighted the critical role of small abattoirs in local food infrastructure, urging DEFRA to clarify how they fit into future farming plans.
Government Response
Daniel Zeichner
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs
Government Response
Acknowledged the importance of small abattoirs, particularly for rare breeds and premium outcomes. Emphasised that over 93% of meat is processed in larger slaughterhouses but noted the significance of the smaller sector for animal welfare and economic growth in rural areas. Highlighted the value of the UK meat processing industry at £12 billion. Emphasized the importance of small abattoirs in maintaining food supply, discussed measures to reduce regulatory burdens, addressed disease outbreaks, raised awareness about local food production, and outlined plans to review public sector food procurement policies. Commited £5 billion to the farming budget over two years with a focus on sustainable food production and nature recovery. Announced measures for poultry sector stability, including an extension of seasonal worker visas until 2030.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.