There are many plant pests and diseases, which
if they were to become established in Great Britain, could cause
serious damage to our crops and plants. Official controls and restrictions
on the import, movement and keeping of plants, plant pests and other
material e.g. soil are vital to help prevent the introduction and
spread of harmful organisms.
Council Directive 2000/29/EC sets out the restrictions
and protective measures which aim to protect plant health within
the Community. The Plant Health (England) Order 2005 implements
these controls. Defra is responsible for implementing the Order
in England and Wales (on behalf of the National Assembly for Wales)
and Scottish Executive in Scotland. Separate but similar arrangements
apply in Northern Ireland.
Commission
Directive 95/44/EC establishing the conditions under which certain
harmful organisms, plants, plant products and other objects may be
introduced into or moved within the Community or certain protected
zones, for trial or scientific purposes and for work on varietal selections
