Interception of Colorado beetle in England and Wales, 1983–1987

The policy of the British Government continues to be to maintain total freedom from Colorado beetle by preventing its introduction and eradicating any breeding colonies which are found. During the years 1983–1987, no breeding colonies have been found and there is no evidence that the Colorado beetle is established anywhere in the UK. Interceptions on imports during this period are analysed by country of origin and also by means of introduction. Total confirmed reports of live beetles are compared with those in previous reports; 250 were found in 1983–1987, 286 for the previous 5-year period and 563 of known origin for the 20-year period previous to 1978.