Explanatory note

Their scope of application is extended, in consequence of an amendment to the common organization of the market in sheepmeat and goatmeat made by Council Regulation No 871/84 (OJ No L 90, 1.4.84, p.35), to prepared or preserved meat and offal of sheep or goats by the addition of a reference to “product” (defined by reference to the description set out in Article 1(c) of Council Regulation No. 1837/80 as amended by Council Regulation No 871/84) to the references to “animal” and “carcase” wherever they occur (regulations 2(e), 4 and 5).

Sheep and goats, or the meat of these animals, not originating, and not intended to be placed on the market, in Great Britain are excluded from the scope of application of the 1983 Regulations when transported through Great Britain under appropriate customs arrangements (regulation 3).

The application of the 1983 Regulations to removals from Great Britain to Northern Ireland by air is clarified (regulation 2(d)).

Authorized officers are empowered to inspect and weigh sheep or goats or the meat of those animals after as well as before their removal from Great Britain to Northern Ireland (regulation 5(1)).

The powers of the Intervention Board for Agricultural Produce in relation to the presentation of sheep or goats for inspection pursuant to the 1983 Regulations at premises named by it are extended to the presentation of the meat of those animals (regulation 5(2)).

Additional powers for the enforcement of the 1983 Regulations are conferred on authorized officers in Northern Ireland and in Great Britain (regulation 6 (2)).

The definition of “carcase” is amended to make clear that “salted” meat and meat “in brine” are distinct categories (regulation 2(a)).

Further information in respect of products is required to be given in removal declarations (regulation 4(4)).

A further offence is created and penalties for existing offences are increased (regulation 7).