FSA to stop discounted meat enforcement charges
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is going ahead with plans to stop discounted enforcement prices in the meat industry despite strong opposition during a comment period.
The consultation covered the proposal to remove discounts on charges for enforcement activity so non-compliant businesses that generate more work no longer benefit from discounts.
Of 16 responses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, four agreed with the plans, three were neutral and nine were against them.
The FSA’s decision means charges will be invoiced without discount beginning March 27, 2023. Hourly rates for enforcement activity have yet to be set for 2023 to 2024. For 2022 to 2023, the official veterinarian rate is £53.30 and £36.20 for meat hygiene inspectors.
“It is simply not appropriate that the general taxpayer provides a subsidy to non-compliant businesses for the chargeable elements of the enforcement process, such as writing and serving a letter about non-compliance,” said the FSA.
The British Poultry Council agreed with removing discounts associated with enforcement where it is proportionate.
“Where breaches of regulations are wilful and/or persistent, or of a very serious nature, then fully agree. However, when breaches occur which are accidental and/or unforeseen, especially where systems or practices are introduced to address the cause and prevent reoccurrence, the food business operator should not be penalized.”
Dunbia, a meat processor, said removing the discount raises the potential of enforcement becoming, a “revenue generator” and shifting direction from proportionate to a black-and-white approach.
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