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

To ask Her Majesty’s Government why they are permitting the importation of bumble-bees from overseas which could carry disease.

Protecting the country from disease is a key priority and we work closely with countries across the globe to make sure that we are well placed to prevent the movement of animal and plant diseases.

EU legislation lays down rules for importing bumble bees; this does not allow the Government to ban imports. Where notifiable diseases are detected, safeguard measures are introduced by the European Commission. Bumble bees may only be imported if they are accompanied by a completed and signed health certificate. The competent authority/veterinary service within the country of origin must make sure that the conditions specified in the certificate are fulfilled, including freedom from proscribed pests and diseases.