HC Deb 24 May 1999 vol 332 cc43-4W
Mr. Tyler

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on what basis he decided to set five working days as the consultation period on the impact of proposed charges on the slaughtering industry. [84076]

Mr. Rooker

[holding answer 14 May 1999]I recognise that we have allowed only a short period for responses to the consultation document issued by my Department. However, as my right hon. Friend announced to the House on 21 April 1999,Official Report, columns 982–88, we are anxious that the review be completed quickly. We can then make decisions on the outstanding charging issues, and remove some of the current uncertainty from the industry by providing a framework in which businesses can make commercial decisions about their future development. We will, of course, accept late responses but cannot guarantee that detailed points received after the deadline will be able to be fully taken into account.

Mr. Tyler

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what criteria have been used to select organisations consulted by his Ministry in studying the impact of proposed charges on the slaughtering industry. [84075]

Mr. Rooker

[holding answer 14 May 1999]As my right hon. Friend announced to the House on 21 April 1999,Official Report, columns 982–88, this study involves a close examination of the dynamics of the slaughtering sector and of the impact of charges on abattoirs and on producers. Selection of the organisations to be consulted therefore reflected this specific remit and concentrated on organisations, such as those represented on the MHS Industry Forum, who would be able to comment on the direct economic impact of charges on individual businesses. A second mailing to those who had responded to our earlier consultation on charges for specified risk material enforcement, was carried out on 10 May.

To provide an opportunity to any others who may wish to comment, the consultation letter has been placed on the Ministry's Internet site, and its availability announced by MAFF News Release. As a result, more copies have been issued to organisations and individuals who were not on the original lists.