HC Deb 18 April 1994 vol 241 c417W
Mr. Alex Carlile

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when she expects to make available to farmers application forms for certificates of competence for the use of organo-phosphorous sheep dips; and if she will make a statement.

Mr. Soames

Sheep farmers were sent a letter and application form last month inviting them to enrol with an agent of the National Proficiency Tests Council, for taking a test for a certificate of competence in the safe use of sheep dips. NPTC agents are sending certificates of enrolment, which are now necessary to support any purchases of organo-phosphorous sheep dips, to those who apply. During the coming months, NPTC agents will be arranging tests for the certificate of competence itself. The latter certificate is not necessary to support purchases of organo-phosphorus sheep dip until 1 April 1995.

Mr. Alex Carlile

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will initiate research into the possibility of a connection between the use of organo-phosphorous sheep dips and depressive illness; and if she will make a statement.

Mr. Soames

Whether or not such research will be initiated will depend on recommendations from the medical panel, which was set up last month as a sub-committee of the Veterinary Products Committee to look into claims of long-term health effects, and to advise on research.