§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy on the provision of abattoirs and meat processing facilities in Wales.
§ Mr. RedwoodDecisions about the provisions of abattoirs and meat processing facilities in Wales are a matter for the commercial judgment of those involved in the industry.
European state aid regulations put severe restrictions on the granting of financial aid to investments in abattoir facilities. However, financial support can be considered for meat processing under the European processing and marketing grant scheme administered by my Department.