HTA response to EFRA Select Committee report on ‘drive-bys’ at border checks

4 March 2026

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), commented:

“Biosecurity is paramount for the sector. The HTA has long advocated on the challenges with the in-land border facilities and associated systems. We are concerned about the potential labelling of plant imports as intentionally illegal in statements relating to an inquiry focused on the meat trade, and we are keen to understand the ‘drive-bys’ data and improvements that have been made since November 2025.

“The HTA has been absolutely clear that the UK needs to secure an ambitious SPS-agreement with the EU, and easements as soon as possible, including what national biosecurity measures we will have to facilitate successful, smooth and secure supply-chains.”

Download the EFRA report