Written questions by Baker.

Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of (a) extended producer responsibility and (b) other waste reforms on the improvement of recycling services by local authorities.

In October 2024, the Government published an updated impact assessment for the introduction of Extended Responsibility for Packaging (pEPR), which includes an assessment of the impact of introducing the pEPR scheme on Local Authorities at an aggregate level. The Simpler Recycling reforms will reduce the negative environmental impacts of waste by increasing both (i) the quantity of materials collected for recycling, and (ii) the quality of recyclate produced due to improved material segregation. The latest impact assessment for Simpler Recycling was published in December 2024.

Food and Rural Affairs, whether he plans to raise extended producer responsibility base fees for plastic.

From year 2 of pEPR (2026/2027), base fees will be modulated to drive a shift to more environmentally sustainable packaging design, with recyclability as the indicator. Materials that are less recyclable, such as some plastics, will incur higher fees, with the additional funds raised being redistributed to lower the fees of more recyclable materials. PackUK intends to publish a modulation policy statement by the end of June, outlining this in more detail.

Food and Rural Affairs, what steps he is taking to support zoos in maintaining effective breeding programs with partners in Europe.

For zoo animal transfers from Great Britain (GB) to the European Union (EU), export requirements vary and must be agreed on a case-by-case basis with the importing country. On receipt of the requirements, Defra collaborates with officials in the importing country to ensure these are practical before producing an official certificate ensuring safe, compliant trade while safeguarding animal and public health. This minimizes the risk of live animals being delayed or returned at borders due to non-compliance. Border Control Points capacity at key locations within the EU can affect zoo animal movements, creating challenges for GB zoos participating in international conservation projects. The department engages with stakeholders, including the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums and French authorities, to advocate for new border control posts and streamline processes where possible.

Food and Rural Affairs, what progress he has made on UK-EU veterinary agreement negotiations.

The Prime Minister and President of the European Commission met on 7 November at the EPC in Budapest, where they discussed the strength of the UK-EU partnership and the need to work together to tackle the challenges facing Europe. Defra’s approach to UK-EU relations will always respect the role of devolved governments and legislatures. The Government knows that many aspects of the Withdrawal Agreement and UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement fall within devolved competence, and there are many reserved aspects of particular importance to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.