HC Deb 17 December 1980 vol 996 cc230-1W
Mr. Hardy

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) if he will withdraw the use of aldicarb or at least prevent its use in areas where ecological effect is likely to continue to be severe;

(2) if he will recommend the use of oxamyl as an alternative nematicide and insecticide to aldicarb.

Mr. Wiggin

As with all applications under the Pesticides Safety Precautions Scheme clearance of aldicarb called for the submission and assessment of data on any hazard to wildlife. The data concerned did not suggest any unacceptable risk of this kind, nor in spite of careful monitoring am I aware of any subsequent evidence to the contrary. However, if the hon. Member has any particular problem or area in mind and will give me details I will gladly ask the Advisory Committee on Pesticides for advice, both generally and in relation to any suitable alternative product which may be available.