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

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to encourage the setting up of small local abattoirs or the provision of local abattoirs.

This is a devolved matter and the information provided therefore relates to England only.

Defra recognises the important role a sustainable smaller abattoir network plays in supporting the rural economy and food security.

Defra continues to work closely with the smaller abattoir sector and to provide support and advice to those wishing to establish new abattoirs.