Advisory Committee on Organic Standards to be reviewed
Minister for Sustainable Farming Food and Animal Welfare, Jeff Rooker, has announced the first independent review of the Advisory Committee on Organic Standards (ACOS).
ACOS, which advises Government on the development and implementation of organic standards, approval of organic certifying bodies and research and development, was created in 2003.
The review is in line with Government recommendations to periodically evaluate public bodies to ensure they are delivering high quality services.
A team of independent consultants will look at and make recommendations on:
- the committee’s future development and governance;
- the quality and impact of the committee’s advice; and
- the committee’s working methods, its resources and how they are managed.
Jeff Rooker said:
"In carrying out the study, the review will consider a variety of evidence on the performance of ACOS and will consult with relevant organisations and stakeholders who have experience of the committee’s work."
A report is expected by the end of the year. Recommendations will be examined and, if necessary, Defra will bring in proposals to change the way that ACOS operates.
Further information
Page published: 29 August 2007