As communicated in September 2021, Defra has introduced legislation (see here) which:

• introduces specific import requirements for Scolytus morawitzi and Polygraphus proximus (both beetle pests of conifer),
• updates existing measures to enable trade,
• strengthens protections against Thaumetopoea processionea (oak processionary moth) risks through trade and movement,
• modifies the regulatory status of other pests to ensure that legislative action is proportionate to the threat of each pest.

Following further consideration on pest risk, Defra has decided to withhold the proposed measures on leek yellow stripe virus.

The legislative changes that introduce new pest measures, or that facilitate trade, will come into force on 2nd March 2022. The remaining changes will come into force on 8th August 2022.