Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what advice his Department gives to garden centres and nurseries on the avoidance of spreading pests and diseases.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency delivers a programme of biosecurity education and engagement with the nursery and garden centre sector. This is delivered through visits, trade shows, talks, workshops, publications and partnership working with industry associations. Nurseries and garden centres are made aware of potential trade pathways for the spread of pest and diseases, and the steps they can take to reduce this risk through implementing appropriate biosecurity measures. Topical issues for importers and retailers, are also reported online at:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/protecting-plant-health-topical-issues