Responding to reports that the EU will today grant the UK's request to extend the grace period on the import and export of chilled meat to Northern Ireland, Naomi Smith, Chief Executive of internationalist group Best for Britain said:

"This extension will only provide temporary relief. We need to secure an EU-UK veterinary arrangement as a long term solution. The only reason the Government would refuse to do this, is if their real goal is to reduce our food and animal welfare standards in order to secure deals with countries like the USA.

"The Government needs to start acting like a global leader, respecting international law, honouring the commitments we make, and rebuilding trust with our closest neighbours and allies."

Notes to the Editor

About Best for Britain: Best for Britain is a pro-internationalist campaign group that strives for the best social, economic, environmental, and democratic outcomes for the British people. We believe this requires re-engagement with Europe, open, internationalist policies, and cooperation with business, all parties in parliament, and like-minded groups.