Poppy Appeal exempt from EU Rules after Robin Swann intervention

“Honoured as Member of Parliament for South Antrim to place a Memorial at the Opening of the House of Commons Garden of Remembrance.” – Robin Swann MP

Following intervention by South Antrim MP Robin Swann, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has confirmed that the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal and related merchandise are not subject to EU regulations.

Guidance will now be updated to reflect this clarification.

Mr Swann welcomed the decision as “a win for common sense,” after raising concerns in Parliament about the application of EU General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR) to the annual charity campaign.

He said:

“I am very pleased that the Secretary of State has acted on this, and that guidance will be updated to ensure those running Poppy Appeal stands and events are not asked to follow unnecessary EU GPSR Regulations.”

Across Northern Ireland, local Poppy Appeal organisers had reportedly been advised they must appoint an EU compliance representative and display corresponding details on poppy trays — a requirement that sparked widespread confusion and frustration.

Mr Swann added:

“Across Northern Ireland, Poppy Appeal organisers had been told to name an EU compliance rep and to ensure their details are made clear through stickers on poppy trays.

“I raised this unacceptable situation in Parliament and through an Early Day Motion. The clarity from the Secretary of State, and a commitment to update guidance for the Poppy Appeal is very welcome news and a win for common sense.”

The clarification ensures that volunteers and charities can continue their vital fundraising work in support of veterans and armed forces families without additional regulatory burdens.