I am deeply concerned about the recent decision by Defra to move imported food checks from their point of entry at the Port of Dover 22 miles inland to Ashford. The lack of detail regarding how lorries would securely transport these goods between these two points is alarming and potentially opens up a risk for unsanitary food products entering the UK unchecked.

This proposed change not only threatens our health but also disrupts an established system that has been working effectively. Currently, around 90% of all imported food comes through our ports, with a significant proportion passing through Dover (HM Revenue & Customs, 2019). Moving these checks inland could lead to delays and potential breaches in biosecurity.

The World Health Organization states that "food safety is a shared responsibility" and it's crucial for us to maintain stringent checks at our borders. By keeping these inspections at the port itself, we can ensure that all necessary precautions are taken before any product enters our country.

I urge you to reconsider this decision and mandate all imported food checks be carried out at their point of entry - The Port of Dover. This will safeguard public health while maintaining efficiency in our import processes. Please sign this petition if you share my concerns about maintaining high standards for imported foods in the UK.

Dover Port Health statement of 12th January 2024

https://www.doverporthealth.gov.uk/news/dover-port-health-authority-statement-12012024

BBC News report about illegal meet being stopped by the Port Health Authority 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-67998820