HC Deb 21 February 1991 vol 186 cc421-2
4. Mr. Allen McKay

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the use of organophosphorous sheep dips.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. David Maclean)

Organophosphorous sheep dips are approved under the Medicines Act 1968 for the effective control of sheep scab. Products are currently being reviewed and any that do not meet up-to-date safety standards will have their licences withdrawn.

Mr. McKay

Is the Minister aware of the widespread concern about the use of organophosphorous sheep dips? As alternatives exist, what is the Minister doing to promote their use?

Mr. Maclean

Of course, I am aware of the concern about the use of sheep dips. Two organophosphorous sheep dips and one alternative are currently available. We should be very happy if anyone were to come to us for approval with a new sheep dip that did not contain those materials, provided that the new dip met all other standards of safety, quality and efficacy. Such dips, which contain potent materials, are necessary to deal with the nasty problem of sheep scab. That is why there are strict warnings on the labels and a scheme to encourage anyone who is adversely affected to report it to our independent advisory committee.

Mr. Speller

Although I agree entirely with my hon. Friend about the vital need for strong sheep dips, is he aware of the fear that when the beast is driven through the dip, it becomes agitated and its pores open? It thus ingests a certain amount of the dip within the fabric of the body. Has the Minister anything to say about the safety of those dips in such circumstances?

Mr. Maclean

When the veterinary products committee reviews sheep dips, it will keep in mind the problem of whether any residue is left on the animal or ingested into its system. The official leaflet that we publish on the control of sheep scab gives specific safety instructions to farmers to ensure that the animals have been rested before they go through the sheep dip so that they are not sweaty, their pores are not open and they are in prime condition.