Biosecurity

My hon. Friend agrees that it is best to liaise across the regions of the UK to replicate best practice, such as combatting bovine TB where something is working well and should be replicated elsewhere.

Discussed the importance of biosecurity and mentioned specific cases of avian influenza and tuberculosis in Northern Ireland. Noted that around 10% of herds across Northern Ireland are affected by bovine TB, costing £55.7 million in 2023-24. Highlighted the need for a proper prevention and control strategy to address all sources of infection. Requested discussions between the Minister and Minister Muir from home regarding bovine TB outbreaks and closer collaboration to address this issue.

Emphasised the importance of biosecurity, highlighting the work of the Animal and Plant Health Agency in Weybridge, which received a £200 million investment. Raised concerns about potential resource limitations if faced with multiple disease outbreaks simultaneously and urged for multi-year funding settlements similar to local government for Dover Port Health Authority (DPHA) due to increasing complexity and volume of its work.

He expressed strong concerns about the impact of biosecurity issues such as avian influenza, bluetongue virus, and African swine fever on animal health, public health, and the economy. He highlighted the need for better funding to support the Animal and Plant Health Agency's redevelopment at Weybridge, emphasizing that £1.4 billion more is needed beyond the announced £208 million. He also called for improved mental health support for farmers and veterinarians facing disease outbreaks. Asked about the capability for random spot checks within the port of Dover to target illegal meat imports, and inquired if DEFRA will continue to make representations to the Treasury for additional funding to refurbish facilities necessary for national security.

Ms Dyke highlighted the increased likelihood of concurrent biosecurity threats, stressing the need for comprehensive defences including fit-for-purpose facilities like Pirbright Institute and Weybridge APHA site. She expressed alarm at the potential closure of parts of Weybridge due to inadequate funding but welcomed additional promised funds. Concerned about workforce shortages in veterinary professionals, she advocated for better data collection and policy adjustments such as transferring work visa decisions from the Home Office to DEFRA. Ms Dyke also noted that improving biosecurity can address both business viability and climate change issues by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through vaccination efforts.

Terry Jermy expressed concern about the proposal for a mega-farm in South West Norfolk, noting that intensive farming contributes to biodiversity loss and climate change. He mentioned a report indicating increased risk of swine and bird flu pandemics due to intensive pig and poultry farming. In 2022-23, more than a fifth of all bird flu cases in England occurred in Norfolk, costing the Government between £2 million and £4 million per outbreak. Jermy highlighted the importance of scientific research conducted by the British Trust for Ornithology regarding environmental challenges and biosecurity.