ABSTRACT

Until April 1995, the enforcement of hygiene, animal welfare and inspection regulations in licensed abattoirs, cutting plants and cold stores in Great Britain was the responsibility of the approximately 300 local authorities. They had a statutory duty to provide meat inspectors, the cost of whom was charged to the industry. Some local authorities issued licences for premises. Premises were monitored by the State Veterinary Service (SVS) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF).