Organophosphorus Sheep Dip: Adverse Reactions

HL Deb 15 February 1996 vol 569 cc56-7WA

Lord McNair

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many suspected adverse reactions to compulsory organophosphorus sheep dip have been reported; when such dipping commenced; and whether the practice continues.

Lord Lucas

National compulsory dipping against sheep scab was started in 1976 and ended in 1992. Compulsory treatment for infested sheep, however, dates back to at least 1928. Information on suspected adverse reactions to organophosphorus sheep dips is only available from 1st January 1985. In the period since then to 9th February 1996, a total of 63 reports involving animals, and 591 involving humans, have been received by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate. Details of those cases involving humans that have already been considered by the appraisal panel for human suspected adverse reactions to veterinary medicines are set out in the published annual reports of the panel. A copy of this report is available in the Library of the House.