Top 10 Priorities for the Meat Industry: AIMS Sets Agenda for the Next UK Government

The meat processing industry has presented its top ten priorities for the upcoming UK government in light of the elections on 4th July.

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has outlined a comprehensive set of proposals addressing the industry's key concerns, ranging from reforming veterinary control systems to shielding British consumers from substandard imports.

Jason Aldiss, a spokesperson for AIMS, stated: "Our goal is to advocate for policies that support the meat industry, enhance food safety, and protect British consumers and producers right from the start of the new Government. We believe these ten key tasks can be implemented swiftly at minimal cost to taxpayers, ultimately benefiting the processing industry and trade."

"Our plan is to engage with ministers from Defra, DBT, DfE, The Home Office, and regulators like the Food Standards Agency, to ensure our members' views are heard and acted upon, regardless of who forms the next government."

Here are the key proposals from AIMS:

1. Streamline Regulatory Oversight with a Farm-to-Fork Body

AIMS suggests creating a unified regulatory body overseeing the entire food chain from farm to fork. This would replace the current fragmented system, leading to better communication and higher food standards.

2. Overhaul Outdated Veterinary Control Regimes

The association calls for a complete modernisation of the veterinary control regime, which is based on outdated science. New controls should address contemporary food safety challenges posed by modern supply chains and processing technologies.

3. Reduce Bureaucracy and Regulatory Burden

The group advocates for removing unnecessary bureaucracy and regulatory burdens, improving efficiency and assurance, and allowing businesses to thrive without outdated regulations.

4. Negotiate a Veterinary Agreement with the EU

AIMS proposes establishing a veterinary agreement with the EU to reduce costs, waste, and improve regulatory assurance. Such an agreement would facilitate smoother trade and ensure British meat standards are recognised in European markets.

5. Harness Technology Across the Food Chain

The use of advanced technologies throughout the food chain is suggested to minimise waste, enhance regulatory oversight, and reduce costs. This includes blockchain for traceability, automated quality control, and data analytics for better decision-making.

6. Modernise Meat Industry Controls with Qualified Staff

The industry needs appropriately qualified staff to support advancements in meat processing. AIMS calls for the employment of professionals experienced in delivering official controls in abattoirs, rather than relying on underqualified veterinarians.

7. Support the UK’s Agri-Livestock Sector

Recognising the agri-livestock and meat sector's importance to the economy, AIMS calls for policies to ensure the sector remains competitive and sustainable amid global challenges.

8. Protect British Consumers from Low-Standard Imports

AIMS is committed to protecting British consumers from imports that do not meet the UK's high welfare and hygiene standards, advocating for stringent import regulations.

9. Simplify Export Promotion and Eliminate Redundant Quangos

The association proposes creating a single, effective commission to promote British exports of food of animal origin, streamlining efforts to boost international trade and open new markets.

10. Invest in Education and Training for the Agri-Livestock Sector

Lastly, AIMS calls for significant investment in education to promote apprenticeships and training programmes, preparing British workers for careers in the agri-livestock sector.