ALYN and Deeside Labour MP Mark Tami has called for tighter controls on food imports after the extent of alien species invading the UK was revealed. Venomous spiders, caterpillars that cause breathing difficulties, plant predators and toxic moths have found their way to Britain in food products from exotic locations. Mr Tami said many alien species threaten the balance of Britain’s natural environment and has called for a crackdown on imports. He said: “I have asked the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to impose tougher controls on food imports. “Colonies of venomous spiders are being found in the south, while Japanese knotweed has spread at an alarming rate across the UK. “We need to act urgently to stop food products coming here with alien species hiding within them. The consequences of not taking dramatic action could be very damaging for the environment.” | 
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