§ 3. Mr. John Whittingdale (Maldon and East Chelmsford)What representations he has received about the level of regulation on low throughput poultry plants. [83848]
§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. Jeff Rooker)We have received representations from Members of Parliament, Members of the European Parliament, industry organisations and poultry plant operators, about the impact of proposals to increase the level of veterinary supervision in meat plants and to increase Meat Hygiene Service inspection charges. We have had just over 40 representations altogether.
§ Mr. WhittingdaleIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the cost of full-time veterinary supervision for low throughput producers has already driven four firms out of business and caused another four to deregulate to the exempt sector? Will he accept that that level of supervision is unnecessary for high-quality, free-range producers such as Kelly Turkeys in my constituency? 1199 Will he seek to establish from the Commission, as a matter of urgency, exactly what is the legal position on this matter?
§ Mr. RookerWe are seeking to establish with the Commission the issue of derogation in the poultry meat directive. Our legal understanding has always been that it applies only to the structural improvements, but we are checking on that and seeking clarification. I accept the hon. Gentleman's point, but every day in this country we slaughter 2 million chickens for us to eat. I am not prepared to put at risk the hygiene checks on the industry that are necessary for public protection.