The purpose of the Quality Meat Scotland (Amendment) Order 2023 is to increase the maximum levy rates in the Quality Meat Scotland Order 2008, which will enable Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) to adjust the levies for the slaughter or export of cattle, sheep, and pigs.
QMS performs a number of functions for the benefit of the red meat sector in Scotland, including the marketing of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork, with the levy money forming a crucial part of their income.
The instrument itself does not raise the levy rates currently charged by QMS but would increase the maximum levy rate which may be charged by QMS in the future. The levy rates themselves are set annually by QMS and are subject to Ministerial approval. QMS can increase charges if appropriate in a financial year, but any increase must be within the ceiling of the maximum rates.
Maximum rates that can be charged on animals presented for slaughter in Scotland are currently set out in the Quality Meat Scotland Order 2008.
The levy comprises two elements:
The levy is charged for all three main red meat species - cattle (plus calves), sheep and pigs. The rate of levy collected for sheep is currently at the maximum ceiling allowed in the 2008 Order but, according to the policy note, the Scottish Government is seeking to “future proof” the QMS Order for an approximately 10-year period. This will give QMS the ability to increase levy rates following any consultation it carries out with the industry and upon approval from the Cabinet Secretary.
More information on the instrument
The Committee issued a call for views on the instrument on 10 November 2023 with a closing date of 17 November 2023. The Call for views asked for views about the proposed increase in the maximum QMS levy rates for sheep, cattle and pigs.
Read the responses to the call for views