The UK government is facing fresh uncertainty over the planned implementation of post-Brexit health and safety inspections at ports, with a new delay announced to prevent significant travel and trade disruptions. According to a briefing reported by the Financial Times, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has opted to delay the initiation of these new checks, originally set for later this month at various ports including Dover.

This latest postponement marks the fifth such delay for the inspection regime, sparking frustration among trade groups and logistical operators. Defra has expressed ongoing concerns about the potential for new inspection procedures to overwhelm port capacities, suggesting a phased introduction instead.

The decision comes amid a specific dispute with the Dover Port Health Authority over the relocation of inspections to the Sevington Inland Border Facility near Ashford. This facility, located 22 miles from the Port of Dover, has been equipped to handle the increased demands of post-Brexit border controls.

Trade groups, including the Cold Chain Federation, have voiced strong criticisms of the government’s handling of the situation. They argue that the continued uncertainty and inadequate infrastructure readiness could lead to higher food prices and logistical nightmares for businesses dealing with EU goods. The federation has called for at least a six-month delay to address these critical issues comprehensively.

Defra’s statement highlighted its commitment to minimizing disruption while ensuring the UK’s biosecurity: “As we have always said, the goods posing the highest biosecurity risk are being prioritized as we build up to full check rates and high levels of compliance. Taking a pragmatic approach to introducing our new border checks minimizes disruption, protects our biosecurity, and benefits everyone—especially traders.

The agency also stressed that extensive engagement with businesses over the past year had been largely positive, with several trade associations and port authorities welcoming the government’s measured approach. Defra remains confident in its capacity and capabilities to manage the expected checks efficiently.

This ongoing saga continues to highlight the complex and often contentious nature of post-Brexit trade adjustments, impacting not just logistical operations but also the broader economic landscape. Further developments are expected as the government and stakeholders work to find a viable path forward amidst these challenging circumstances.