The importation of livestock for breeding into the UK could be completely halted within months if the Government does not provide funding for a new animal border check as required after Brexit.
Currently breeding animals are allowed to continue to be brought into the country from the European Union until July 1 under a transition period set up by the UK government.
But Portsmouth International Port has warned that a lack of funding from the Government combined with bureaucracy means that the deadline of July 1 will not be met, even if the full funding was provided.
The port, owned by Portsmouth City Council, requested £32 million in funds but was only granted £17.1 million for essential schemes which it estimates will cost £22.3 million, leaving a £5.2 million shortfall.
The importation of livestock for breeding into the UK could be completely halted within months if the Government does not provide funding for a new animal border check as required after Brexit.
Currently breeding animals are allowed to continue to be brought into the country from the European Union until July 1 under a transition period set up by the UK government.
But Portsmouth International Port has warned that a lack of funding from the Government combined with bureaucracy means that the deadline of July 1 will not be met, even if the full funding was provided.
The port, owned by Portsmouth City Council, requested £32 million in funds but was only granted £17.1 million for essential schemes which it estimates will cost £22.3 million, leaving a £5.2 million shortfall.
TEAMS of volunteers are now running a Covid-19 testing station at an international port. Current restrictions require that those entering France have proof of a negative COVID test, which has caused a huge number of lorries to be held back. However, testing is now underway for pre-booked freight drivers on their way to France from Portsmouth International Port. Teams from Hampshire Search and Rescue have been running a testing station at the port since Boxing Day. The station has been covering all sailings since it opened in an effort to reduce the numbers waiting to travel. The voluntary organisation was asked on Christmas Eve if any assistance could be provided and within a few hours of sending the request over 50 members agreed to help.