NEW THREAT TO AG SHOWS

NEW THREAT TO AG SHOWS

THE FUTURE OF agricultural and county rural shows could be devastated if the government pushes ahead with proposals that would see show organisers liable for a national tariff for health and safety inspections, it has been claimed.

Currently local authorities cover the cost of health and safety inspections at one-off outdoor events but that could change. Culture secretary Tessa Jowell has proposed outdoor shows attracting over 6000 visitors should pay a new national tariff for inspections – likely to be based on attendance figures – of between £5000 and £50,000 per event.

Some event co-ordinators, including Newport, Shropshire-based show orgainser Clare Farrell, have already expressed concern.