BVA speaks out after reports suggest changes could be delayed for fifth time.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has expressed its frustration as reports suggest the Government will once again delay the implementation of new post-Brexit border checks for imports from the EU.
The new Border Target Operating Model, which would have seen additional checks on food and animal products, is due to start being rolled out from the end of October 2023, with further stages implemented during 2024.
However, according to reports in the Financial Times, the Government is set to delay the introduction of the checks for a fifth time, fearing that the cost of the checks could increase inflation at a time when the Government is focused on reducing it.
In response, the BVA has put out a statement expressing its concern that the delay could have a negative impact on the UK’s ability to prevent serious diseases from entering the country.
BVA president Malcolm Morley said: “News that the Government may be once again delaying the introduction of crucial border checks on goods entering the UK is extremely frustrating and is putting the UK’s biosecurity at serious risk of imported diseases like African swine fever.
“Government vets are doing an unwavering job to mitigate these threats but without proper border controls from the EU in place, they are effectively doing the job with one hand tied behind their backs. The British Veterinary Association urges the Government to urgently press ahead with introducing the checks or risk the safety and security of our agricultural industry, food security and UK public health.”
The Government are yet to confirm whether there will indeed be another delay to introducing the measures, but have stated that they are currently reflecting on feedback from relevant stakeholders.
A Government spokesperson said: “The Government remains committed to delivering the best border in the world. The Border Target Operating Model is key to delivering this and introduces an innovative approach to importing that will be introduced progressively.
“We are reflecting on the valuable feedback provided by a range of businesses and industry stakeholders and will publish the Border Target Operating Model shortly.”
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