HL Deb 11 March 1999 vol 598 cc51-2WA
Lord Rotherwick

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether some livestock is still slaughtered by farmers specially licensed to perform that task. [HL1267]

Lord Donoughue

Arrangements implementing new EU rules came into force in April 1995. These replaced the previous system of annually renewable slaughterman's and knacker's licences with a requirement that anyone carrying out commercial slaughter must be assessed for competence and hold a registered slaughterman's licence. These arrangements apply to farmers and their employees who regularly slaughter animals.

Lord Rotherwick

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many farmers or other private individuals hold licences to slaughter livestock; and what is the cost of each licence and the total revenue generated therefrom. [HL1268]

Lord Donoughue

A total of 4, 773 registered slaughterman's licences were issued between April 1995 and the end of December 1998, generating a total income of £95, 460. The register does not identify the licence holder's occupation or status. There is a single fee of £20.00 for the issue and registration of a licence. Licences are no longer required to be renewed annually.

Lord Rotherwick

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they propose to introduce any new legislation or amend existing legislation relating to licences held by farmers to slaughter livestock; and, if so, how many licence holders will be affected; and whether the cost of licensing and inspection will change. [HL1270]

Lord Donoughue

We have no plans at present to change the existing legislation.