§ Joan RuddockTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what advice he has received regarding use of Lindane since the meeting of the Advisory Committee on Pesticides in York on 24 February; and when he expects a decision to be announced. [113616]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 9 March 2000]: At its meeting on 24 February the Advisory Committee on Pesticides considered an evaluation of scientific data concerning the exposure to lindane of members of the public using lindane products in their gardens for controlling garden pests. The Committee concluded that these pose no unacceptable risk and have recommended that approvals for this particular use should continue. The Committee also suggested a number of steps that might be taken to improve the packaging of such products to minimise any potential risks in their usage. The Committee's recommendations are currently being considered by Ministers who will announce their conclusions shortly.