§ Mr. AingerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to revoke the approval for products containing carbaryl. [1218]
§ Mrs. BrowningAs announced on 7 November, the Government have accepted the advice regarding pesticide uses of carbaryl from the Advisory Committee on Pesticides. The ACP concluded that there was no cause for concern about the risk to consumers from the low levels of residues currently found in food. However, the ACP advised that action should be taken to reduce or remove long term exposure for the users of pesticides containing carbaryl.
Accordingly, the Government have revoked all approvals for carbaryl-containing pesticide products intended for non-agricultural, garden or poultry house use. A one year period of grace will be allowed for stocks already in the supply chain to be used up. The remaining professional pesticide uses will be allowed to continue subject to the tightest practicable controls on the method of application and protective equipment and clothing.
The issue of the safety of carbaryl in veterinary products is under active consideration by the Veterinary Products Committee.