Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what amendments he is intending to propose to the European plant health regime. [127158]

Mr Heath, Minister of State, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs [holding answer 7 November 2012]: The UK was instrumental in securing a review of the EU plant health regime which has remained largely unchanged since its introduction at the start of the Single Market. In partnership with key stakeholders the UK has been active in influencing the Commission's approach with key objectives being:

Faster decision making as plant health risks change and new pests arrive.

Better risk targeting and a shift of inspection effort from plant produce to plants and propagating material (including addressing threats from new and emerging trades).

More co-operation between plant health inspectorates across the EU.

The Commission's formal proposals for a new plant health law are expected early next year.

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