HTA statement in response to plant consignment holds at Sevington BCP

18 September 2024

In response to reports of multiple plant consignments being held at Sevington BCP, the HTA has released a statement as they continue to actively help known affected members and engage directly with Defra and APHA as a priority on this specific issue. 

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Public Affairs, HTA stated:

“We have sought to establish the details of the causes and the situation on the ground while requesting urgent communications from authorities to those involved and the wider industry. We understand the issues have arisen following an outbreak in Pistoia, Italy of Pochazia shantungensis, a cicada with a large host range, which is a quarantine pest in the UK. While importers have been awaiting test results, we have been explicit with the authorities to ensure clear communications are given to all involved in this specific issue, including the test details.

We have made it clear that delays like this with no communication are completely unacceptable. They must ensure that the industry has detailed and timely communication in the future, should such a situation occur. We seek to support and provide further updates as soon as possible. We engage with Defra on a daily basis, both on immediate border issues and on the longer-term ambitions for cross-border plant trade.”

Any HTA member businesses impacted are invited to contact the HTA at [email protected]