Defra has launched a new consultation on changes to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). The consultation, launched on 17th November, seeks views on proposals for reform of the legislation that establishes the levy board. It is in response to the request for views on AHDB conducted in 2018. The proposals also reflect the outcome of the ballots on potatoes and horticulture, from earlier this year.
There are four proposals being consulted on;
- The Future of the Potato and Horticulture levies – This proposal reflects the outcome of the ballots in these two sectors. The proposal requests consultation on removing potato and horticulture levy mechanisms from the AHDB Order. Further, the consultation requests views on how to manage and fund future Emergency Authorisations (EAs and EAMUs).
- A Regular Vote for Levy Payer – This looks at establishing a five-year voting cycle on the work that levy funds will be spent on in each sector. The first of such votes is set to take place in Spring 2022. This proposal also requests views on whether the 5% threshold for calling a ballot should be retained.
- Extending the Scope of AHDB – Views are being sought on whether the AHDB order should be amended to allow work to be conducted in non-levy paying sectors, i.e. poultry, on a voluntary or commercial basis, where requested by industry. This may also allow the potato and horticulture sectors to ‘opt back in’ in certain circumstances.
- Change in Headroom for Levy Rates in the English Sheep Sector – A proposed 25% increase in the maximum allowable levy rate for the English sheep sector. This is to allow more flexibility in delivering additional services as required
Responses to the consultation are sought before midnight on 10th January 2022. Further details on the consultation are available here.
