Scottish Seed Potato Industry 2021-07-22
2021-07-22
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Scottish seed potato industry is known for its high health status and exports to 40 countries, with 80% of its exports outside the EU. The EU has not allowed its Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed to assess Scotland's application for equivalence.
What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on support for the Scottish seed potato industry?
The Scottish seed potato industry is renowned globally for its high health status, exporting to 40 countries including Egypt and Morocco. The EU has refused to assess Scotland's application for equivalence under EU law despite the provision for it. We are working with industry to address this issue.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about recent discussions and actions taken by the government was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Scottish seed potato industry faces risks due to the EU's stance on equivalence and has significant exports outside the EU.
To remove the risk to Scotland's seed potato industry and respect the principle of reciprocal trade, will the UK Government agree to prohibit the importation of seed potatoes from the EU?
A temporary six-month marketing authorisation for EU seed potatoes in England and Wales expired as agreed with industry and devolved Administrations. Any future applications will be assessed under GB regulations, encouraging the EU to apply its own rules and assess Scotland's application.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about prohibiting imports was not directly answered; instead, it discussed existing authorisations and future assessments.
Response accuracy