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Written question asked by Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice) on Thursday, 4 September 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 September 2025. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Monday, 15 September 2025 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

UK Internal Trade: Northern Ireland

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, for what reason businesses in Northern Ireland are being charged (a) £127.60 per GB inspection of GB potatoes they wish to buy and move to Northern Ireland and (b) different rates for each SPS certificate depending on the GB farm from which the potatoes are bought.

Answer

This is a devolved matter and the costs provided relate to England and Wales only.

Phytosanitary certificates are required for the movement of ware potatoes from Great Britain to Northern Ireland to confirm freedom from pests and diseases. Each consignment must be inspected before certification. The inspection carries a minimum charge of £127.60 for the first 30 minutes, with an additional fee of £63.80 for every subsequent 15 minutes. A certificate is issued for each consignment at a cost of £25.52. Where multiple consignments are presented for inspection at the same time, this allows for more efficient use of inspector time and can reduce the cost per consignment.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
75003
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Import duties Northern Ireland Potatoes UK internal trade
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk