Local meat producers at a disadvantage

There is NOT a level playing field for local meat producers and the Tesco horsemeat scandal proves it.

That’s the belief of the former President of the Manx National Farmers Union, Middle MHK Howard Quayle.

The retailer was criticised again in the House of Keys this week for its failure to stock Manx meat until certain tests were completed.

Mr Quayle believes some products coming into the Island aren’t subject to the same checks as Manx produce.

Tesco yesterday confirmed the horsemeat in those burgers did not come from a list of "approved suppliers".

The store is to introduce a DNA testing system for meat products.