Defra announces tougher measures to keep African Swine Fever out of the UK
Following recent pressure from BMPA and other industry groups, Defra has announced that there is to be a clamp down at UK borders on small consignments of pork and pork products that are not produced to EU commercial standards. From 1 September individuals will only be able to legally bring in up to 2kg of pork for personal use, and there will be increased vehicle checking at the border. Anything over 2kg will be confiscated.
Speaking about the announcement Nick Allen, CEO of The British Meat Processors Association said: “Our concern had been mounting over the worrying increase in small van loads of meat entering the UK from areas with African Swine Fever but with no border checks. So, we’re extremely relieved that these new measures are to e brought in with immediate effect. The Government listened carefully to our concerns and acted quickly to tackle the growing threat to the British Isles of African Swine Fever.”