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<p><em>Xylella fastidiosa</em> is a regulated pathogen in the EU under the Plant Health
Directive, with strengthened requirements now in place in response to the risk posed
by this organism. This includes measures to protect against its introduction from
countries outside the EU, as well as requirements to prevent infected material being
moved from areas within the EU where it is present.</p><p> </p><p><em>Xylella fastidiosa</em>
is currently not present in the UK and we are taking robust action to protect against
its introduction, including restricting high-risk imports, inspecting host material
from outside the EU and raising awareness, through publicity and direct interaction
with growers and trade associations.</p><p> </p><p>Our aim is to prevent further introductions
into the EU as a whole (thereby protecting the UK) and to prevent spread from areas
of the EU where it is present. This includes engaging actively with our EU partners
and the European Commission on ensuring we have the best possible protective measures
in place.</p><p> </p><p>Imports of host plants from outside the EU can now only take
place where the pest status of the country or origin has been confirmed and when stringent
import conditions have been met. All such imports are inspected at points of entry.
Plant species which have been confirmed as a host in the EU must now be accompanied
by a Plant Passport, meaning they can only be moved into and within the UK by officially
authorised businesses. Additional requirements apply to areas where the pathogen is
present to prevent the movement of potentially infected plants from such areas.</p><p>
</p><p>Through our delivery bodies we are applying the EU-wide provisions as well
as carrying out surveillance visits of premises growing and trading host plants. In
the event of an incursion, a full investigation would take place to determine the
circumstances and the actions required. Should an outbreak occur, the requirements
of the EU Decision would apply, including destruction of infected and potentially
infected plants and demarcation of the outbreak area with restrictions imposed in
line with the Decision. We are working closely with industry bodies to raise awareness
and encourage good practice.</p>
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