The Shadow Minister for Environment has hailed the continued hard work of Welsh abattoirs and called for support and confidence in them to remain throughout the current horsemeat scandal.
Montgomeryshire Assembly Member Russell George has tabled a Statement of Opinion asking the National Assembly to acknowledge the exceptional production standards of abattoirs and recognise the fundamental role they continue to hold as exemplars of animal welfare standards, food labelling and food traceability.
His actions come amid concerns from small businesses in Mid Wales regarding the perception of abattoirs as developments in the Food Standards Agency’s investigation into the presence of horsemeat in beef products continues.
Mr George said, "The investigation into this scandal must be thorough and those who have been complicit in deceiving the public must be brought to justice.
"While this work continues, it is important to remember and recognise the extremely hard work of small Welsh abattoirs who continue to set exceptionally high standards.
"Amid on-going and understandable public worry, it is vital that we do not forget these businesses and continue to have faith in their abilities to provide a first-class service.
"We must ensure that the illegal behaviour of a minority does not affect the prestigious reputation of Welsh food."
Statement of opinion: Support for Small Welsh Abattoirs
The National Assembly:
- Recognises general public anxiety and diminished confidence in meat processing and labelling in light of the current European horsemeat scandal;
- Notes that the majority of abattoirs in Wales are made up of a network of small, local businesses;
- Believes those small abattoirs have a fundamental role to play as exemplars of animal welfare standards, food labelling and food traceability;
- Is grateful to small Welsh abattoirs for maintaining exceptional production standards and for upholding consumer confidence in quality Welsh lamb, beef and pork.