BVA backs new border control proposals
The new controls aim to prevent diseases such as African swine flu from entering the UK.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed draft proposals for new UK border controls, emphasising the importance of the Government continuing to engage with the veterinary profession as the plans progress towards becoming law.
The draft Border Target Operating Model sets out new measures to tackle biosecurity threats and illegal imports in order to protect public health and the economy from the dangers posed by diseases such as African swine fever.
The draft highlights recent investigations which found frozen, raw and uncooked meat products which were labelled as suitable only for sale in the originating EU country being sold in UK shops. Although they tested negative for African swine fever, it would be possible for the disease to reach the UK in this way. The draft states that under the proposed new controls, products such as these would be prevented from entering the country.
In response to the publication of the draft controls, BVA president Malcolm Morley said: “We welcome the publication of the Government’s draft Border Target Operating Model. Whilst we need to scrutinise the detail, in principle it is an acknowledgement of the vital role border controls play in protecting public health and UK biosecurity, rather than seeing controls as simply a barrier to trade that needs to be overcome.
“By having robust systems in place, the UK can minimise its exposure to diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease and African Swine Fever, which could have a devastating impact on the UK’s domestic animal population, and in turn our farming and agrifoods industries.
“As the Border Target Operating Model moves from draft to finalised protocol, it’s vital that the Government continues to engage with the veterinary profession to ensure the model is fit for purpose. Vets have a unique role in ensuring the highest food and animal welfare standards are being met for products imported to the UK. The British Veterinary Association looks forward to working with the Government on the finer detail, to ensure it delivers for everyone.”
A six-week engagement period is currently ongoing, with a final version of the Border Target Operating Model to be published later in 2023.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
