Decision not to increase AQIS meat inspection charges welcomed

4/9/97

Primary Industry Minister Monty House today welcomed the announcement by his Federal counterpart John Anderson of his decision not to implement the Federal Government's proposal to increase AQIS meat inspection charges.

Mr House lobbied the Federal Minister on a number of occasions to reconsider his decision which would have been a financial disaster to many small Western Australian abattoirs.

In a statement last month, Mr House said the impact in WA would be that a small meat works could face up to a 26 per cent increase, with medium to large works facing around a 16 per cent increase.

Mr House said the Federal Government had agreed to defer increases in AQIS meat inspection charges as well as reduce fees for the 1997-98 year.

"I congratulate John Anderson on his decision not to increase AQIS charges," he said.

"This is the decision industry fought long and hard for.

"I am particularly pleased with the decision to establish a taskforce which ensures industry plays an active role in the AQIS meat inspection reform process."

The taskforce will have an independent chair and is expected to meet for the first time later this month.

Media contact: Nicole Trigwell (08) 9481 2044