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Japanese Knotweed: Weed Control

Asked by Alex BrewerLiberal DemocratDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 13 April 2026UIN 124415

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment her Department has made of the potential merits of providing financial support to homeowners for the treatment or removal of Japanese knotweed; and what consideration her Department has given to the environmental impact of this species.

Answered by Mary Creagh

The treatment or removal of Japanese knotweed is the responsibility of the homeowner and Defra has no plans to offer financial support.

Defra has not reviewed its current guidance, as no new evidence has emerged that would make a further review necessary. Existing guidance on preventing spread and treatment — most recently updated in February 2026 — remains in place.

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