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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps relevant authorities have taken to prevent the outbreak of phytophthora pluvialis since that disease was confirmed in (a) Devon and Cornwall on 20 October 2021 and (b) Cumbria on 19 November 2021.

Following the positive identification of Phytophthora pluvialis on western hemlock and Douglas-fir trees in a woodland in Cornwall in September 2021, several findings of the pathogen have now been identified in Cornwall, Devon, Cumbria, Surrey and Shropshire, and at multiple sites in Scotland and Wales.

This is the first report of the pathogen in Europe and the first published finding of P. pluvialis on western hemlock.

Forestry Commission and scientists from Forest Research are leading intensive action to understand more about the pathogen. This includes UK wide aerial surveillance, extensive ground survey of over 1200 sites across England, and comprehensive research and modelling to explore factors such as climatic suitability and species susceptibility. On most of the sites affected, the symptoms are mainly on young, naturally regenerated western hemlock.

A Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) is being undertaken to evaluate the latest scientific and economic evidence, assess the risk posed to the UK and inform our approach. We are currently seeking views on the PRA through public consultation.

In the meantime, we have adopted a cautious approach. An initial risk assessment has concluded that P. pluvialis meets the criteria to be classified as a GB quarantine pest for regulatory purposes. To prevent spread of disease, robust management action is underway on the most affected sites. Six demarcated areas have been introduced around confirmed outbreaks, and there are prohibitions on the movement of any wood, isolated bark and trees (tanoak, western hemlock, pine and Douglas-fir) originating from within a demarcated area, and any plants for planting that have originated or reside within the demarcated area.