17
Accepted
EU exit reduced timely access to detailed animal disease intelligence for the UK.
Conclusion
The Department explained that following EU exit, the UK lost access to the EU’s Animal Diseases Information System which provided almost real-time intelligence on EU animal diseases. While the UK has access to an international intelligence system provided by the World Organisation for Animal Health, information is received in slower time and less detail compared to the EU system. The Department stated that it was still able to react quickly to the case of foot and mouth disease in Germany based in informal intelligence.21 APHA’s systems and processes
Government Response Summary
Although the committee's statement was a conclusion, the government interpreted it as a recommendation and accepted it. It committed to APHA developing a clear plan and milestones within six months to track audit recommendations and reviewing all surveillance activities by February 2027 to ensure a targeted, risk-based approach, with an overall implementation target of May 2026.
Government Response
Accepted
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
3.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: May 2026. 3.4 The APHA surveillance strategy combines daily global scanning of emerging animal diseases by the International Disease Monitoring Team, epidemiological support from the National Emergency Epidemiology Group, monthly UK-wide risk analysis by the Veterinary Risk Group, and participation in the Human Animal Infections and Risk Surveillance (HAIRS) group to evaluate zoonotic threats; Together these efforts provide early detection, evidence‑based policy advice, and coordinated risk management, while continuous improvement of scanning systems and strengthening of the national veterinary network enhance frontline support, biosecurity, and resilience against evolving global risks. 3.5 APHA will have a clear plan and milestones set out within the next six months to track delivery of audit recommendations. By February 2027, APHA will review all surveillance activities to ensure that there is a targeted, risk-based approach. Monitoring and tracking of this will be incorporated into APHA’s audit response plans.
Source
Committee
Public Accounts Committee
Report
52nd Report - Resilience to threats from animal disease
05 Nov 2025
HC 885
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.7 yr
Report published
05 Nov 2025