The HTA has called on government to focus on building a more collaborative approach to improving plant biosecurity in its response to the Defra consultation on ‘a plant biosecurity strategy for Great Britain’.
The submission highlights the commitment of those working in ornamental horticulture and
The focus from government, the HTA says, should be on promoting self-regulatory plant import schemes like a ‘trusted trader’ initiative, as well as directing resources to better tackling ‘rogue traders’.
Director of Policy and Communications, James Clark said: “This consultation matters hugely to the industry. It will set the framework for a future biosecurity
“We want to be part of working collaboratively with Government on how this strategy can work best to have the right level of biosecurity and plant health protection, while ensuring its proportionate and measured. The influence, enthusiasm and expertise of the industry is an incredible resource that could be better harnessed by the government.
“Our message to government is we’re incredibly keen to work more collaboratively, but we need to see some change. Introducing a ‘trusted trader’ import scheme that would see businesses who meet the highest standards, underpinned by an accreditation system, receive fewer and lesser inspections, would be a start.
“Better concentrate
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