A HAMPSHIRE MP has given her backing to a campaign that hopes to save small abattoirs from closure.
Sandra Gidley, pictured, Lib Dem MP for Romsey, is supporting a call by a coalition of organisations, including the Soil Association and the Country Landowners Association, for the Meat Hygiene Service to be reformed.
They presented a 120,000-signature petition to Downing Street today.
Ms Gidley said: "I am delighted that the campaign to reform meat inspections charges has gained widespread support.
"The hourly-rate payment system has crippled small abattoirs and led to hundreds of closures.
"It has also meant higher charges for Britain's hard-pressed farmers, as they have to transport their animals over long distances.
"The government must now take up the recommendations of its own McLean task force and make small and medium-sized abattoirs financially viable again."
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