§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consideration he is going to pay in compensation for individuals harmfully affected by the use of organophosphorus sheep dips; and if he will make a statement on compensation claims in respect of his policy on harmful effects of organophosphorus dips. [19787]
§ Mrs. Browning[holding answer 21 April 1995]: The question of compensation for those who claim to be affected by exposure to organophosphorous sheep dips is a matter between the individuals and pharmaceutical companies concerned.
§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further controls his Ministry plans on the use of organophosphorous sheep dips; and what steps his Ministry is taking to enforce the present regulations. [19788]
§ Mrs. Browning[holding answer 21 April 1995]: I have no plans for further controls on the use of organophosphorous sheep dips at this stage. It is important to give the new certificate of competence arrangements, which only came into full effect on 1 April 1995, sufficient time before coming to any judgment over their effectiveness. The arrangements will continue to be kept under review, and I will be taking stock of the position at the end of the year. If they are not found to be working properly, then changes will be considered in the light of any further advice the Veterinary Products Committee might offer. Enforcement of the controls on sales of organophosphorous sheep dips is carried out by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, and on their use by the Health and Safety Executive under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1998.