Govt Needs To Clarify Food Safety Laws Post-Brexit

The government has been asked to clarify its laws regarding food safety, imports and exports after the UK leaves the European Union (EU).

Lord Bassam, together with the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH), is putting pressure on the government to confirm its high standards of food regulation, inspection and supply continue to be met post-Brexit.

Last week, Lord Bassam was joined by Peers in the House of Lords to demand whether the government intends to suspend food regulations; publish an impact assessment into the consequences of doing this; and if they will work with experts in the food sector before deciding what to do.

Chief executive at CIEH Anne Godfrey said: “The issue of the UK’s food standards and supply is not something that can be brushed under the carpet.”

She added that the UK already faces uncertainty at its ports and within the supply chains, even before Brexit has occurred.

Lord Bassam stated he is worried Britain’s high food standards will be compromised if the government does not publish its plans on dealing with food safety laws once the UK no longer follows EU regulations.

He added: “Parliament, industry, and the British people, deserve an answer.”

In July, a report by the Food Research Collaboration revealed the government intends to suspend food safety controls in a no-deal Brexit arrangement so perishable food are not delayed at the border.

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