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<p><em>Xylella fastidiosa</em> is not present in the UK and we have been proactive
in engaging with the horticultural industry about the risks from this disease. We
appreciate that it has a crucial role to play in minimising the risk of its introduction.
In September 2017 the Chief Plant Health Officer wrote to businesses growing and trading
host plants to encourage good biosecurity and careful sourcing of plants. Biosecurity
guidance has also been developed, with bespoke guidance produced for industry.</p><p>
</p><p>We have published information about <em>Xylella</em> on the Plant Health Portal
and provide frequent updates to industry groups and individual businesses. We have,
in association with the Horticultural Trades Association and the National Farmers
Union, developed guidance on <em>Xylella</em> host plants to encourage good practice
when sourcing plants. The industry has responded positively to this engagement, and
we have noted that many retailers and nurseries are changing their buying behaviours
to go above and beyond the minimum requirements. Stakeholder groups have also developed
their own initiatives, including through the Horticultural Trades Association and
Royal Horticultural Society, to ensure that best practice approaches are adopted by
their members and at their events.</p><p> </p><p><em>Xylella</em> is present in some
other EU Member States, and we are have strongly pressed for the EU to strengthen
measures to prevent further spread of the disease. Restrictions on the import and
movement of high risk host plants were increased through new EU emergency legislation,
which took effect in December. The UK pushed hard for this legislation to be put in
place, including Defra’s Secretary of State writing to the European Commissioner for
Health and Food Safety Vytensis Andriukaitis to urge stronger action.</p><p> </p><p>
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