QMS levy increase gains Ministerial approval
Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has announced that Scottish Ministers have approved an increase in QMS’ levy rates following “extensive consultation” with industry stakeholders and levy payers.
The QMS board had previously requested that Mairi Gougeon, the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, approve an increase in the levy rates, which the Scottish Ministers have now done.
As a result of the approval, a levy rise, based on consumer price inflation (CPIH) from 23-24th January of 6.8%, will be implemented for processors and producers from 1st April 2024.
QMS has also proposed that levy increases revert to annual increases in line with the CPIH index, marking the first time that QMS has requested a change in the levy in 13 years. The body said that the increase would ensure its financial model “remains sustainable” and that QMS “remains fit to support Scotland’s iconic Scotch brands, promotional work and market development” in the UK and internationally”.
At the end of the five years, QMS said the levy setting mechanism would be reviewed as “part of future consultation on strategy” at that time.
Commenting on the announcement, Kate Rowell, QMS chair, said: “We are pleased that Scottish Ministers have approved the levy increase which will ensure continuation of the work that QMS has committed to prioritising for farmers and processors across Scotland.
“The new rates will allow us to invest in our key activities underpinning our vision to make Scotland THE choice for premium red meat, during a critical time for all businesses.
“QMS will continue to proactively engage with the whole red meat chain as we navigate the future together, and look forward to showcasing some of our new work streams over the coming months.”
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