Custom controls in Wales could spark illegal imported meat

PLANS to slash customs controls throughout Wales could spark an increase of illegally imported meat, farm leaders have warned.

Dismantling checks would encourage criminals and terrorists to view the country as a soft touch, said the Farmers Union of Wales.

"The clear message being sent out to criminals is that if they want to smuggle anything into the UK, head for Wales," said FUW deputy president Gareth Vaughan.

A decision to cut frontline anti-smuggling staff in Wales by 40% will mean the abandonment of any meaningful border controls, said workers representatives.

The Public and Commercial Services Union, which represents 20,000 Customs and Excise staff, said more than 500 miles of coastline would have no coverage.

The FUW said it was told about the plan by Carmarthen East and Dinefwr MP Adam Price.

It fears illegal meat could trigger another foot-and-mouth epidemic, or could bring with it other diseases which could endanger animal and public health.

The union has held talks with senior Government ministers and officials, calling for greater resources to combat the criminal trade in illegal meat imports.

Mr Vaughan said: "It's wrong for people to think that all smuggling activity takes place through the seaports of southern England and large international airports.

The trade in illegal meat imports is worth more than a billion pounds a year, he added.

"The criminals involved will realise that their job will be made much easier if they concentrate on bringing their contraband into this country via [Welsh] sea ports."