FARMERS SET TO SUFFER FROM PROPOSED NEW EU PESTICIDE BAN
Farmers will suffer reduced crop yields if a proposed pesticide ban is implemented in all areas used by the public, warned Euro-MP Robert Sturdy. Proposals have been approved by the European Parliament’s Environment Committee this week which will place unnecessary burdens on our farmers who are already over-burdened by EU bureaucracy.
Robert Sturdy said “The UK has an exceptional record in pursuing environmentally friendly agricultural methods. Our action plans and working methods already exceed many of those of other EU countries. Through proper training for pesticide users, we can protect the public and the environment without threatening the production of food, and the public can continue to enjoy the rights to roam through our countryside.
“While I recognise that pesticides, if not used in a responsible manner, can be potentially harmful, the amendments adopted by the Environment Committee which include this ban are impractical, over-protective and unworkable.
“Of course we need to reduce the risk that chemicals have on our environment, our water supply and our health, but the decisions of the committee fail to consider the rights of citizens and the needs of the agricultural community.
“This report implies that in order for us to retain our right to roam, we must stop using pesticides all together in public areas. Pesticides maximise farm yields and product quality, minimise labour input, help meet plant health requirements and allow trade in farm products. The EP appears to be asking us to choose between good farming practice and the freedom of movement throughout our own countryside.”
MEPs supported Socialist calls to ban the use of pesticides in all areas used by the general public including public paths, school grounds, and residential areas.
Mr Sturdy added: “This report is pointless extra bureaucracy which our farmers can do without. As rapporteur for a recent EP report on pesticides, and as shadow rapporteur on a report protecting water standards, I am more than aware of dangers of certain chemical can present. However, as a farmer I know the essential role that pesticides have in ensuring supply can meet demand and at the levels of quality consumers want.
Mr Sturdy supports calls made by the National Farmers Union and the Country Landowners Association to focus attention of the reduction of risk posed by pesticides rather than on inaccurate pan European volume reduction.
“We cannot understand how a report which calls for greater recognition of farmer's knowledge and experience in the use of pesticides can impose a ban which implies these trained workers cannot be trusted to use these products responsibly.”
