The BVA stresses that abattoirs are important points for detecting notifiable diseases. A reduction in their number therefore means fewer opportunities for veterinary surveillance and early identification of threats.
BVA President Dr Gwen Rees said that effective biosecurity and surveillance are essential for the rapid detection of disease and an effective response.
Animal welfare is another area of concern. With fewer abattoirs available, animals may have to travel longer distances or take more complex routes to reach slaughter facilities.
The BVA is calling on the government to recognise abattoirs as critical infrastructure for protecting animal welfare and supporting veterinary surveillance, and to work with the sector and the veterinary profession to maintain sufficient local slaughter capacity.
At the same time, the Sustain coalition, together with the parliamentary group on animal welfare and representatives of the Abattoir Sector Group, has urged the government to intervene urgently to prevent further abattoir closures. They argue that any further contraction of the sector could undermine goals related to food security, economic growth and support for British farming.
PigUA.info, based on materials from thepigsite.com