INDUSTRY NEWS


CRAFTBUTCHER l SEPTEMBER 2019 25 NCB GIVES EVIDENCE TO PARLIAMENT


Early in July National Craft Butchers immediate past president John Mettrick gave evidence to the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) chaired by Lord Sandy Trees about the impact of closures and provision of small abattoirs throughout the UK.


cases make retailing their own meat uneconomic.


The sector, John Mettrick says is under strain and it’s the smaller operators that show the signs first. He also says, that during the past two years there has been a reduction of small abattoirs in both Scotland and Wales and only a modest increase in England. Which illustrates the vulnerability of small abattoirs in remote locations and which suffer proportionally higher costs for removing waste and clearing animal by-products like hides and skins. With some getting nothing and others having to pay to get them taken away.


Lord Sandy Trees


Responding to a question about gaps in small slaughterhouse provision and the effects on animal welfare and the rural economy. Mr Mettrick said that farmers complain that closures mean animals travelling further to slaughter which impacts on animal welfare and in some


John Mettrick continued giving evidence, saying that welfare standards across the whole industry were high but an advantage that smaller abattoirs have is the ability to deal with animals as individuals in small ‘family’ groups. He also believes that health checks on farm prior to despatch can reduce animal welfare problems and mortality rates during transportation before arriving at


the abattoir.


When asked about standards and prices, Mr Mettrick’s view is that there is a premium to be had for meat with a story which starts with quality, provenance and welfare. But when asked about how abattoir provision and the role and services provided by abattoirs fits into the Government’s vision of farming. John Mettrick says: “If Government wants to support sustainable environmental farming, small abattoirs will have a vital role in processing local meat”.


Answering about service and costs between large and small abattoirs. John Mettrick believes that small abattoirs provide a specific service and can add value to a farmer’s meat by manufacturing into bespoke products. Something that larger operators would struggle to provide, as well as providing the farmer with an alternative route to market when farm gate prices are depressed or when animal movement restrictions kick in.


While on the question of rare breed and private kill, Mr Mettrick says that small abattoirs are better placed than the larger operators to deal with small numbers of stock due to their small-scale operation.


Concluding his submission, John Mettrick said: “Results of a recent survey of small abattoirs in England and Wales servicing a total of 990 producers showed that 95% of the livestock were moved less than 30 miles to slaughter”. He added: “in times when meat is being challenged for its environmental credentials illustrates the value of local meat”.


But when it comes to casualty slaughter Mr Mettrick admits that small abattoirs are sometimes challenged structurally when dealing with cattle as well as paperwork and additional waste removal.


The APGAW will be publishing its report in abattoir provision soon. n


IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT


Due to unforeseen circumstances the 2019 Great Yorkshire Pork Pie, Sausage & Products Competition will NOT take place this year for the first time in our 30 year history.


However, the good news is that we will be holding a Dinner Dance on Saturday, November 16th, 2019, at our normal venue, The Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford, at 7pm for 7.30pm. Dress code – Black Tie or Lounge Suit.


The cost is £35 to include 4-course meal with quality beef or vegetarian option, plus live entertainment by the


famous Terry Webster of the Rockin’ Berries. NB: Bookings of tables of 10 will include 2 complimentary bottles of wine


For further details/bookings contact CYBC Secretary Mike Ward on 01535 643693, mob. 07712 631742, or email maward11@btinternet.com


Overnight accommodation is available at a special price of £60 for a double room, £50 single.


All are welcome, presenting an ideal opportunity for butchers to enjoy a great evening with family and friends! THE GREAT YORKSHIRE COMPETITION WILL RETURN IN 2020. WATCH THIS SPACE


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