Following a report by the EFRA Committee outlining recommendations for how government should proceed with negotiations and the implementation of a new EU-UK SPS agreement, the Government has published its response.

The EFRA Committee’s press release outlines some of the answers it got including an action plan on tackling illegal meat imports, better cross-departmental working, and animal welfare.

Perhaps one comment in their release could raise concerns amongst businesses. The EFRA Chairman, Alistair Carmaichael MP commented that “Ministers have disagreed with our call to give businesses a transition period to adjust to what could be very disruptive changes coming down the track.”

However, the Government’s response may offer some reassurance. It has rejected the recommendation for “an implementation period of at least 24 months” but goes on to say “We have been listening to businesses and understand concerns raised about how the new agreement could affect them. We know that some businesses require longer to adjust to the new arrangements and will continue to work with them to ensure a smooth transition.”

BMPA is working closely with government to map out the concerns and logistical challenges of members. Indeed our CEO John Powell will be appearing in front of a forthcoming House Of Lords European Affairs Committee evidence session on dynamic alignment on 19 May 2026. As negotiations progress and we get more clarity from government, we’ll keep members updated so they can plan ahead.