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Meat Exports to the EU
07 January 2026
Lead MP
David Chadwick
Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe
LD
Responding Minister
Kate Dearden
Tags
EconomyBrexit
Word Count: 2709
Other Contributors: 4
At a Glance
David Chadwick raised concerns about meat exports to the eu in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The lead MP asks the Government to urgently negotiate an SPS agreement with the EU in collaboration with industry. Any such agreement should be concluded as soon as practically possible by the end of this Parliament to prevent further damage to the sector.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Welsh farmers are struggling with new export requirements post-Brexit. Before Brexit, exporting Welsh lamb to Europe was straightforward without export health certificates or routine border checks. Now, each consignment of lamb requires multiple certificates, veterinary sign-offs and customs declarations, adding significant cost and delay for a perishable product.
Orkney and Shetland
Emphasized that if an SPS agreement is to be negotiated, it must include extensive consultation with British agriculture to avoid unintended consequences.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Added that Northern Ireland's supply of lamb and meat worth up to £4 billion must be considered as part of the UK’s discussion with the EU, arguing against treating Northern Ireland as a third nation. Raised issues specific to Northern Ireland farmers related to veterinary medicine controls and potential disadvantages in selling beef and lamb.
Honiton and Sidmouth
Asked about restoring fresh beef exports to the EU levels seen in 2019.
Tulip Siddiq
Lab
Hampstead and Highgate
Asked the hon. Member for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe to give way but was declined; did not contribute further in this chunk. Inquired about incorporating animal welfare into the SPS agreement, highlighting voter concerns.
Government Response
Kate Dearden
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade
Government Response
Emphasized the importance of world-class British meat exports, noting record-breaking figures of £1.65 billion in 2024. Highlighted efforts to negotiate an SPS agreement with the EU to reduce border friction and paperwork costs while maintaining high standards. Discussed the Government's goal of making trade with the EU cheaper and easier without joining a customs union.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.