With
the new plant passporting regulations coming into force in less than a month,
the HTA has requested that Defra operate a common-sense approach to
implementation.
The
suggestion is that a 12 month grace period is introduced where no penalties
will be issued for non-compliance as long as businesses can demonstrate their
intent to comply with the legislation. This view was supported by members
taking part in the HTA’s Plant Passport event on 14 November 2019.
HTA
Policy Manager, Sally Cullimore comments, “We are asking that Defra take a
common-sense approach to the implementation of the plant passporting
regulations. The suggestion is that a 12 month grace period is introduced where
no penalties will be issued for non-compliance as long as businesses can
demonstrate their intent to comply with the legislation. Importantly, this is not a delay and businesses would need to
have a plan in place demonstrating their intent to comply.”
This
ask of Government was announced at a series of sector-specific seminar sessions
on plant passporting led by HTA Policy Manager, Sally Cullimore, ahead of the
new plant passporting regulations coming into force on 14 December 2019. The
biggest event to take place at HTA’s Horticulture House the sessions attracted
150 retailer, grower and landscaper members. The same number of members also
joined the event via a live webinar enabling them to ask questions as well.
The
HTA has written to the Minister and Chief Plant Officer requesting the 12 month
grace period. Through weekly Q and A sessions with the Defra implementation
team the HTA as been ensuring that members’ questions are addressed. This is in
addition to producing sector guidelines, checking plant passport designs for
members and responding to their questions.
Sally
Cullimore adds, “Members asked many questions during the sessions and we will
continue to raise them with Defra to provide clarity. Their main concern is
that there is such a lot to do in a short period of time and they don’t want to
get it wrong. This is why a grace period with regard to penalties is so
important. With the 14 December fast approaching, it is time to take action and
ensure that you have practical plans in place for your business.”
