§ Mr. WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received and what consultation he has undertaken regarding the imposition of a pesticide tax; what assessment he has made of the effects and levels of pesticide taxes in other European Union states; and what plans he has to introduce a pesticide tax. [61892]
§ Mr. MacdonaldIn November 1997, the Government issued a consultation paper entitled 'Economic Instruments for Water Pollution'. One of the options on which the consultation paper sought views was a possible tax or charge on pesticides.
Research is currently underway into whether a tax or charge on pesticides would be an effective way to reduce pollution. There is evidence to suggest that pesticides have harmful effects on wildlife, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and on human health. The Government are committed to minimising their use. The current research study is focusing on various design options for a tax or charge.
The Government will evaluate the findings of the research, and the results of other on-going work, in considering how best to proceed.
Decisions on the possible introduction of such a tax would be a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.