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Insufficient DPHA operational coverage and defunded vets undermine biosecurity at Dover.

Recommendation
In the absence of an effective deterrent for meat smuggling and within the context of high rates of non-compliance with import rules, 20% operational coverage for DPHA’s anti-meat smuggling operations is insufficient. Defra’s decision to cease funding for official veterinarians at the Port of Dover is counterintuitive to its ambition of a biosecure border. (Conclusion, Paragraph 61) 38
Government Response

A response document is linked to this report, dated 11 November 2025. Response attribution to this conclusion has not been verified. Read the response document.

Addressee Bodies
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs
Timeline
Recommendation age 1.0 yr
Report published 08 Sep 2025