The UK government has extended restrictions on food imports from the EU after a new outbreak of foot and mouth disease was confirmed in Greece. Travellers arriving by air face having goods seized and penalties of up to £5,000 if they bring prohibited items such as sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats and milk into Great Britain.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) confirmed that the ban on all food products, including duty free purchases, will continue for an extended period. Commercial imports of milk, colostrum and related items like feta and yoghurt are only allowed if heat-treated and accompanied by a health certificate.
DEFRA minister Dame Angela Eagle said the government used the Christmas period to remind the public about the personal imports ban, which came into force last April. She noted that over 90% of respondents in a survey were aware they should not bring meat and dairy products from EU countries.
UK Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christine Middlemiss stated: 'A case of Foot and Mouth disease has been confirmed in Greece. We are in contact with our European counterparts to understand the latest situation. Robust plans are already in place to minimise the risk of disease incursion to support Britain's farming community and food security.'
Labour MP Ben Goldsborough has questioned whether adequate steps are being taken to inform the public, asking Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds about funding public awareness campaigns at airports and ports. Dame Angela responded that any decisions on paid campaigns would be based on threat level, evidence of effectiveness and available resources.
