51AVÊÓÆµ

EXCLUSIVE - John Milne: 'We want small abattoirs to be seen as critical national infrastructure'

Liberal Democrat MP John Milne writes on the vital role small abattoirs play to support food security, local meat supply chains, higher animal welfare and economic growth. However, he sheds light on why they face increasing pressure to remain operational

clock • 3 min read
Horsham MP John Milne said: "Farms that once had a straightforward local route to market now face much harder choices, and with 43% of farmers nationally saying they would have to give up local meat sales entirely if their nearest abattoir shut, the consequences of further closures are clear."
Image:

Horsham MP John Milne said: "Farms that once had a straightforward local route to market now face much harder choices, and with 43% of farmers nationally saying they would have to give up local meat sales entirely if their nearest abattoir shut, the consequences of further closures are clear."

Despite the importance of the food sector, the number of abattoirs in the UK has declined from around 2,500 in the 1970s to just 203 today. The effects have been devastating for small farms and local...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on 51AVÊÓÆµBusiness

Have your say on the future of the 51AVÊÓÆµBusiness Newsletter

Have your say on the future of the 51AVÊÓÆµBusiness Newsletter

We're reviewing the Farmers Guardian 51AVÊÓÆµBusiness Newsletter and want to hear from readers about the topics, insights and advice they value most. Complete our short survey and help shape future editions.

clock 28 August 2026 • 1 min read
Farmers urged to vaccinate their livestock amid rise in bluetongue cases in Wales

Farmers urged to vaccinate their livestock amid rise in bluetongue cases in Wales

Welsh farmers have been warned the situation is 'evolving rapidly' and it was vital they remain vigilant of disease

Rachael Brown
clock 27 August 2026 • 1 min read
Opinion: I'd rather live next to a farmer than a data centre

Opinion: I'd rather live next to a farmer than a data centre

News and business reporter Mia Willemsen questions why so many data centres are being built on agricultural land

Mia Willemsen
clock 27 August 2026 • 2 min read