Post-Brexit trade and chlorinated chicken

We are delighted to note the content and tone of George Eustice MP’s article (The UK can’t accept backward US food standards – or chlorinated chicken, theguardian.com, 6 March; US chlorinated chicken is not good for UK, says ex-minister, 6 March). Like his former boss at Defra, Michael Gove, he assures British consumers that high standards are essential in any post-Brexit future.

As co-authors of six reports on these issues since 2017, we remain sceptical. Firstly, while the words are fine, until his resignation, Mr Eustice was in charge at Defra of steering the agriculture bill through parliament. This places no legal duties or responsibilities on ministers for delivering high standards, hence the welter of anxious amendments before the Commons. Secondly, the entire promise of Brexit on food and agriculture was to open up the UK to “world” foods, with deregulation as a driver. And thirdly, as the US trade representative and US ambassador have made amply clear, the UK will be in a weak position vis-a-vis US demands to allow access for its food products after Brexit.

As a leading Brexiteer, Mr Eustice’s reputation stands in the balance, not just British food standards.
Erik Millstone
Professor emeritus, Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex
Tim Lang
Professor of food policy, City, University of London

• America once knew what it was like to trade at a disadvantage with Britain, but it now appears that the boot may soon be on a different foot. The time could come when this country has to “take back control” with a re-enactment of the Boston Tea Party by dumping American chemically treated beef overboard into the sea.
Barry Samuel
Reigate, Surrey

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