§ Mr. DevlinTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the certificate of competence scheme for the purchase of organophosphorus sheep dips. [4848]
§ Mrs. BrowningFollowing advice from the Veterinary Products Committee, new restrictions on the sale of organophosphorus sheep dips were introduced in 1994. A requirement that such dips may be purchased only by persons holding, or employing someone who holds, a certificate of competence in their use came fully into effect on 1 April this year. I have now set in hand a review to assess the effectiveness of the scheme. The views of a wide range of interests are currently being sought on this land and other aspects of the use of organophosphorus sheep dips. A copy of the consultation letter and circulation list is being placed in the Library of the House.
The Veterinary Products Committee will be asked to review the results of the consultation and I expect to receive the further advice of the VPC early next year.