18th April 2026
Concerns have been raised following claims that a taxpayer-funded agricultural body spent tens of thousands of pounds promoting halal meat practices linked to religious festivals.
According to figures shared by Catherine Blaiklock, a Freedom of Information request to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) found that around £47,000 was spent over three years on campaigns and events connected to halal slaughter.
The reported spending is said to include promotional materials, educational videos on halal butchery, and support for events linked to Eid al-Adha, during which the practice of Qurbani—ritual animal sacrifice—takes place.
Blaiklock has criticised the use of levy funding, arguing that public or industry-backed money should not be used to support activities tied to specific religious practices. In posts on X, she questioned whether such spending represents appropriate use of funds collected from farmers.
The issue has reignited debate around halal slaughter methods, particularly the practice of killing animals without prior stunning, which remains controversial in some quarters. Animal welfare groups have long called for stricter regulation, while religious organisations maintain that halal practices follow established traditions and are an important part of cultural and religious life.
The AHDB has previously stated that its role includes supporting market development for British agricultural products both domestically and internationally. Advocates of the spending argue that engaging with diverse markets, including halal consumers, is part of that remit.
Critics, however, are calling for greater transparency and clearer guidelines on how levy funds are allocated.
