Border check loophole raises disease risk from imported meat
MPs Warn Border Check Loophole Could Increase UK Disease Risk
MPs have warned that trucks importing meat and dairy products into the UK are avoiding border inspection checks. This raises concerns about potential disease risks to the livestock sector.
According to reporting by BBC News, under the current post-Brexit system, commercial consignments entering through Dover are inspected at the inland border control post in Sevington, near Ashford. They are inspected there rather than at the port itself.
Data from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs shows a rise in so-called “drive-bys”, where vehicles flagged for checks fail to attend the Sevington facility. For example, in November 2025, around 18% of flagged consignments of animal products did not present for inspection. This is compared with 8% in August.
The Environment Food and Rural Affairs Committee said the situation could increase the risk of diseases entering the UK, including African swine fever and Foot and Mouth Disease. Committee chair Alistair Carmichael described the system as “dysfunctional”. He warned that inadequate enforcement could allow illegal animal products to enter the country.
Defra said non attendance at Sevington constitutes a breach of regulations. Authorities are expected to follow up on any violations.
Source: BBC News | 4 March 2026
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