§ Alan SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the policy of Her Majesty's Government is on the use of methyl bromide in farm and food production. [166574]
§ Mr. MorleyMethyl bromide is an ozone depleting substance and its production and supply are controlled under the Montreal Protocol. Its production is due to be phased out in developed countries after 31 December 2004, except for quarantine and pre-shipment purposes.
1223WIn addition, under the Protocol and the equivalent EC legislation, methyl bromide can be authorised for "critical uses" after 2004, including use in relation to farming and food production.
The Government's view is that methyl bromide is being phased out by the Protoco1 and should not be phased back in by excessive critical uses. Every effort should be made therefore to identify possible alternatives to methyl bromide use in relation to farm and food production.