Dover Port Health Authority Statement - 12th January 2024

Further to our statement on 22 November 2023 below, Dover Port Health Authority (DPHA) are challenging Defra's intention and messaging that official border controls will move away from the border for inspection at Sevington.

Without explanation of how this would work operationally, and most significantly how these goods will be controlled during the 22-mile journey from the point of entry at Dover, to Sevington (in Ashford), DPHA cannot support Defra's vision not to operate a POAO BCP at Dover. This is because of the increased risk this presents to GB biosecurity and public health. DPHA remain the Port Health Authority and as such are responsible for ensuring that diseases are mitigated at the point of entry.

Defra have been unable to explain how biosecurity and public health controls will be 'maintained' as they have claimed, by moving physical controls away from the border at Dover. Their intention is a bespoke measure, which is not being implemented or suggested at any other UK border, arguably because it would be unsafe to do so.

We remain resolute in our responsibility to safeguard public health and biosecurity at the border and are fully committed to supporting trade and business to ensure your goods are moved effortlessly and seamlessly through the Short Straits.

For further clarification or inquiries, we urge you to reach out to DPHA