Neonicotinoids
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether her Department plans to implement a ban on the emergency use of neonicotinoids as a matter of urgency.
Answered by Emma Hardy
This Government remains committed to ending the use in England of the three neonicotinoid pesticides (thiamethoxam, clothianidin, imidacloprid) that threaten vital pollinators, including through emergency authorisations.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have published updated guidance for emergency authorisations of pesticides. This update clarifies and strengthens the existing guidance to ensure that future emergency authorisations take full account of the risks that pesticides may pose.
Negotiations are also underway on a Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement with the EU. Any further action, such as potential legislative options, can be considered once the new pesticides regulatory framework for Great Britain is agreed.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →