§ 18. Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many representations he has received about the operating costs of abattoirs; and if he will make a statement. [33446]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsWe have received several representations. We have consulted the industry on the implementation of EU Directive EEC/96/43 on Financing of Veterinary Inspections and Controls and will be considering carefully all the responses made. The Meat Hygiene Service has also recently commenced a consultation exercise with the industry on meat hygiene inspection charges for 1998–99 and we will be taking note of responses there also.
The Government recognise the effect that current problems have had on the industry. In order to help the industry through this difficult time, we have announced that charges for implementing Specified Risk Material controls on cattle, sheep and goats in fresh meat plants will not now be recovered from the industry from 1 April 1998, as previously planned.