UK and EU agree draft deal to scrap Brexit red tape over food exports

The UK and EU have agreed a draft sanitary and phytosanitary deal to remove post-Brexit checks and red tape on food and agricultural trade. The 200-page text, circulated to EU countries ahead of a summit later this month, could eliminate certificate and inspection fees and allow UK exports of fresh sausages, burgers, shellfish from domestic waters and seed potatoes to resume. The government estimates the agreement could eventually bring the UK economy £5.1bn in annual benefits and allow UK pets to travel to the EU with passports. The UK would commit to dynamically aligning with existing EU rules on plant, animal and food standards.