House of Commons · General Debate
27 April 2021 · 5 other contributors
Opened by Victoria Prentis Con Banbury
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Victoria Prentis raised concerns about exiting the european union (animals) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Moves to approve regulations extending the exemption period for import requirements of plants, animals and their products coming into Great Britain from the EU due to unforeseen impacts of the pandemic. The original start date was 1 April 2021 but has been extended in response to the ongoing effects of COVID-19 on business communities.
Acknowledges the need for the statutory instrument but expresses scepticism about the readiness of border control infrastructure and IT systems. Questions the impact of delays on smugglers, fraudsters, and food security. Calls for engagement with the EU to ensure smooth imports and exports.
Welcomes the Government’s commitment to banning live animal exports for fattening and slaughter, praises post-Brexit traffic plans but criticises delays in the new border facility at Dover's White Cliffs site. Emphasises the importance of timely delivery for trade and biosecurity.
Critiques the Government's handling of Brexit, highlighting failures in negotiations, export industries collapse, and poor treatment of EU citizens. Acknowledges that regulations are necessary to keep food on shelves but expresses scepticism about the overall impact of trade deals.
Raises concerns over the Northern Ireland protocol's impact on animal movement, citing specific examples such as high costs for dog show travel and delayed pony deliveries. Urges the Government to trigger Article 16 of the Northern Ireland protocol to secure trade.
The instrument is a critical component in the ongoing legislative process to ensure robust biosecurity imports regime post-transition period. The Government will continue phasing in controls on imports, providing support to businesses, and enforcing full customs procedures for controlled goods such as tobacco and alcohol while being more targeted in their approach focusing specifically on risks to Great Britain. DEFRA has put in place a movement assistance scheme to increase understanding and preparedness among traders.