Swann Backs Campaign to Protect Local Egg Producers

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has signed a parliamentary motion calling on the Government to tighten import controls and protect UK egg producers from being undercut by inferior foreign imports.

The Early Day Motion highlights figures from the British Egg Industry Council showing that egg imports have risen to around 1.6 billion annually. Many of these imports fail to meet the strict welfare and food safety standards that local farmers are legally required to uphold.

UK producers have invested significantly to meet the high standards of the British Lion Code of Practice. The parliamentary motion urges the Government to strengthen transparency, traceability and border controls to stop local farmers from being undercut by products produced under systems that are banned in the UK.

Commenting on his support for the motion, Mr Swann said:

"Our local poultry and egg producers work incredibly hard to maintain some of the highest food safety and animal welfare standards in the world. It is entirely unjust that they are being forced to compete with a significant influx of cheap imports that don't meet those same rules and standards.

"Allowing food produced under systems that are banned in the UK to flood our markets threatens our local farm businesses and jobs, and risks undermining public trust in the agrifood sector.

"I am pleased to back this motion to call on the Government strengthen import controls and improve transparency. It is key that we back our local farmers and protect our rural economy.”