July 17, 2006

Scotland's processors against meat inspection charges

Meat processors in Scotland are concerned that the industry would be subjected to full meat inspection charges which could reach as high as GBP40 million (US$72.9 million). 

The National Farmers Union of Scotland (NFUS) expressed concerns that inspection charges might be transferred from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to producers.

The FSA is expected to issue a formal consultation later this year on charges for meat inspections. Currently, the FSA bears the costs associated with public health issues, including those involving the removal of specified risk material from cattle.

However, the government organisation now plans to shift the financial burden onto the industry. The public health duties are currently undertaken by the Meat Hygiene Service at a cost of GBP 12.7 million (US$23.2 million) a year.

In the first year, 2007, the FSA had proposed to recover GBP2 million (US$3.6 million) from the industry, with larger plants expected to pay about GBP22,000 (US$40,114). 

The costs would rise over time until the full amount could be borne by the meat-processing industry, the union said.

The meat industry already covers certain costs to meet hygiene requirements and the testing of cattle before and after slaughter, which costs the industry GBP26 million a year.

NFUS said it opposes new charges without a review of efficiency. NFUS said a comprehensive review of the roles of vets, the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS), and plant operators is required to rationalise the cost. NFUS also believes that since control measures are now under review in Brussels, Belgium, it would be unnecessary for further changes.

NFUS vice president Bob Howat said there is no real tendering process for inspections as the MHS is the only agency that can undertake the work, therefore, efficiency reviews would be important to ensure the industry gets value for its money.