Problems with export red tape after Brexit has seen one South Holland company stop exporting daffodil blooms to Dutch markets.
Lord Taylor of Holbeach told the House of Lords that shipping the flowers out in time for the next day’s markets was ‘now totally impossible,’ as a result of red tape .
“Through plant health regulations and customs requirements we are no longer able to ship overnight to the Netherlands auctions. It may be just an indication, but these problems exist for a number of businesses,” he told the chamber during a debate.
“Logistically it is very difficult to get them to clear through customs,” he told The Voice on Tuesday.
He also highlighted a problem in recruiting people to pick the flowers as it’s more difficult for European workers to come here now.
While saying he is ‘usually supportive of the government,’ Lord Taylor said he was speaking from personal experience of being involved in a horticultural business.
He made clear that importing and exporting bulbs was not affected as they are not as perishable as freshly-cut flowers.
Meanwhile staff and directors at Taylors Bulbs have been planting their ‘green canopy’ for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebration.
“We decided to grab our shovels and pull on our work boots to take part in the initiative.
“As Royal Warrant holders we wanted to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee and we hope the trees our staff have planted today will help to enhance our local environment and be a fitting way to mark the occasion,” said director Adam Taylor.
