§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment whether he will now publish the research carried out by the Health and Safety Executive on the effects of organophosphorus sheep dip on farmers. what other studies into this matter are being funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ForthThe Health and Safety Executive has not carried out research into the effects of organophosphorus sheep dip on farmers' health. A pilot survey carried out in the south-west in autumn 1990 was to look at sheep dipping practices and to contribute towards the validation of a biological monitoring method which relies on urine measurements rather than blood sampling. The survey was undertaken for operational reasons by HSE to determine appropriate avenues for further research. There are no plans to publish it in its present form.
Following this pilot survey HSE is commissioning research into the possible chronic long-term effectsneuropsychological effects—of exposure to organophosphoros sheep dip. Work is also being commissioned on the occupational hygience aspects of sheep dipping—dip bath design and dipping technique. HSE agricultural inspectors will next year undertake a survey of sheep dipping facilities on farms.