UK Calls for Stricter Controls Amid Surge in Illegal Meat Imports
Amid rising concerns of a “foot-and-mouth level” threat to British agriculture, calls have intensified for stronger measures to curb illegal meat imports entering the UK.
Newly released Border Force data shows an alarming increase in seized illegal meat, with figures doubling from nearly 35,000kg in 2022/23 to over 70,000kg in 2023/24.
This surge has prompted concerns about organized crime, with Health officials at Dover noting that fewer vehicles carry larger quantities, suggesting increased smuggling efficiency.
National Farmers’ Union President Tom Bradshaw emphasized the risk, warning that African swine fever, which “could spread very rapidly through our pig herd,” would have “huge, huge implications.”
With African swine fever continuing to devastate pig herds in Europe, the demand for stricter import regulations is pressing. Conservative MP Dr. Neil Hudson, a veterinary surgeon during the 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak, likened the risk of an outbreak to “a catastrophe.”
Hudson advocated for increased funding to refurbish the Animal and Plant Health Agency, stressing that preventive investment is crucial to avoiding economic fallout similar to the 2001 outbreak, which the National Audit Office estimated at £14.5bn.
Although new post-Brexit border checks were introduced at Dover in April, concerns persist. Vehicles are now directed 22 miles to Sevington for inspections, raising questions about potential security gaps.
Despite recent government funding for Dover, there has been no equivalent support for smaller ports, leading to fears that criminal activity could shift locations.
Government representatives affirmed their commitment to “strict import controls” and partnerships with Port Health Authorities to prevent the entry of diseases like African swine fever, which has not yet been recorded in the UK.
However, with the stakes high, British farmers and MPs continue to urge decisive action to protect the nation’s livestock industry.
If you’re interested in how import regulations impact meat safety and the risks of illegal meat, visit our homepage for more insights.
