Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what support his Department is offering to small independent family (a) butchers and (b) abattoirs.

The Government recognises the important contribution small independent family butchers and abattoirs make to the food supply chain and remains committed to maintaining a resilient and accessible meat processing sector. A strong network of local abattoirs and local butchers is vital for supporting rural economies, strengthening small-scale livestock farmers with private kill facilities and access to local markets, sustaining rare and native breeds, and providing skilled employment opportunities.

Defra continues to work closely with stakeholders representing both small abattoirs and local butchers including through the Small Abattoirs Working Group and the Small Abattoirs Task and Finish Group. These groups help both identify challenges and opportunities faced by these sectors and co-operate in developing practical solutions to improve sustainability.