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Written question asked by Rachel Blake (Labour) on Monday, 16 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 March 2026. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Monday, 23 March 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Agricultural Products: UK Trade with EU

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what consideration is being given to animal welfare in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement being negotiated between the UK and the European Union.

Answer

The Government is currently negotiating a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement to make agrifood trade with our biggest market cheaper and easier, cutting costs and regulatory barriers for British producers and retailers.

The details of this are subject to negotiation, but the Government has been clear about the importance of being able to set high animal welfare standards. While those negotiations are ongoing, Defra cannot comment further however parliament will be informed when they are concluded.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
121207
Session
2024-26
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Animal welfare Agricultural products UK trade with EU
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk