§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what powers she has to monitor the effectiveness, and performance of border inspection posts. [13276]
§ Margaret Beckett[holding answer 8 November 2001]: The local authority are responsible for ensuring that the checks at border inspection posts (BIPs) are carried out to the standards specified in community legislation.
The Products of Animal Origin (Import and Export) Regulations 1996 contains provision for an authorised officer (of the Minister) to audit the local authorities' operation of border inspection posts. This includes checking whether staff comply with the requirements of the regulations, taking samples and the examination of documentary or computer material.
The regulations also require the local authority to provide detailed information on the products checked at the BIP and the outcome of those checks.
Local authorities are required to report on these activities through the Divisional Veterinary Managers of DEFRA. DEFRA staff work closely with the authorities in carrying out these inspection responsibilities.
70WThe Food Standards Agency commenced an audit programme of local authorities on 1 April 2001 and where applicable this will include an audit of the BIP.