Sheep Dipping (Hansard, 20 March 1989)

§ Dr. David Clark
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what regulations control the use of chemicals for dipping sheep; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Donald Thompson
Sheep dips are veterinary medicines and are subject to controls set down in the Medicines Act 1968. Proper use and storage on farms is a matter for the HSE.

§ Dr. David Clark
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what advice he gives to farmers about the safe use of chemicals used for dipping sheep; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Donald Thompson
It is a condition of licences for all veterinary medicinal products that suitable advice on use is included on the label including, where appropriate, operator safety warnings and contingency medical advice.

§ Dr. David Clark
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking to ensure the safe disposal of chemicals used for dipping sheep; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Donald Thompson
Sheep dip labels carry advice on safe disposal. Fuller guidance is available free in ADAS booklet 2198, "Guidelines for the disposal of unwanted pesticides and containers on farms and holdings".

§ Dr. David Clark
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking to ensure that chemicals used in sheep dips do not enter rivers and streams; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Donald Thompson
Sheep dip labels point out that it is unlawful to permit any poisonous, noxious or polluting substance to enter any river, stream or watercourse etc. The law is enforced by local water authorities from whom further guidance is available.