The Government has announced that the UK will suspend the introduction of additional border checks on live animals from the European Union (EU), as well as specific plant and animal goods from Ireland (non-qualifying goods).

The official decision comes ahead of a wider sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement being negotiated between the UK and EU.

The deal aims to streamline time and costs for businesses in the UK, with less border delays and simplified food trade.

It is understood that non-qualifying goods from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland can continue entering the UK without physical inspection but may require certification.

Biosecurity Minister Baroness Hayman said: “Our deal with the EU will boost British businesses as we cut cumbersome bureaucracy and make trading food with our biggest market both cheaper and easier.

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“Protecting the UK’s biosecurity is essential, and our partnership with the EU will ensure this while delivering for working people as part of our Plan for Change.”

Some live animals will undergo inspection based on specific risk factors, and the suspension will continue to be reviewed to ensure biosecurity in the UK.

Additionally, there will be risk-based surveillance and monitoring by Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency to ensure the safe movement of goods.

In June, the Government suspended the EU fruit and veg border checks as it aimed to cut costs and lower prices for businesses in the UK.

Last week the Government also announced a trade deal with Egypt which will see UK-produced dairy products exported without the need for halal certifications.