More than half the inspectors have been subjected to violence or intimidation, according to a survey by the public services union Unison and the Meat Hygiene Service.

Unison wants improved protection

Keith Sonnet, the union's head of local government, said: "Over the years we have heard horrific accounts of violence and threats against our members.

"Some have been physically attacked, threatened with knives and guns and others have had their cars vandalised and offices and property wrecked.

"Apart from actual attacks many staff face a continual tirade of obscenity and abuse which slowly wears down their professional resolve."

"Abattoir violence threatens food safety standards by making it very difficult for inspectors to carry out their jobs effectively. It must be tackled quickly."

Ben Priestly: "Total culture change needed"

Another union spokesman, Ben Priestly, attributed the attacks to inspectors slowing down production lines as they do their jobs, reducing profits in the process.

He said violence had become accepted as "going with the territory" but this was no longer acceptable.

"We want every offender prosecuted," Mr Priestly stated.

Worrying statistics

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has been sent a copy of the report. It says it is taking the matter seriously and will look at preventative measures.

Questionnaires were sent out to 1,540 inspectors and 770 returned their forms - 409 staff reported incidents of violence and intimidation.