June 10, 2020

British Poultry Council worries US-UK trade deal could allow food not produced to standards

The British Poultry Council expressed concern this month that the latest US-UK trade deal could compromise British food standards.

A key issue involves "food produced to standards not permitted in the UK" could be allowed to enter the country under the deal, according to the council's chief executive, Richard Griffiths, in a press statement.

"We are calling on Government for urgent clarification and whether it is official policy to allow trade in these products under a tariff regime. The Government has repeatedly stated the UK will not compromise on our high environmental protection, animal welfare and food standards in trade negotiations, and we are asking them to live up to that commitment," Griffiths said.

"To allow these products, even with tariffs attached, sells out the standards and food values that British farmers have worked incredibly hard to achieve."

Griffiths also voiced his worry that the "impetuous action" could upset post-Brexit trading relations with the European Union.

"Maintaining high British standards and continuing a healthy trading relationship with the EU is vital to UK food security," Griffiths said.

"Government must not negotiate trade agreements that compromise Britain's competitiveness. Instead of protecting food businesses, to allow lower standard imports will make it even more difficult for British producers to feed the nation at a time when our food security should be paramount."

- British Poultry Council