§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will place in the Library the166W research held by his Department on the effects of organophosphorous sheep dips on people; and if he will make a statement. [35514]
§ Mrs. Browning[holding answer 8 July 1996]: As part of the continuing review of the use of organophosphorus sheep dips by the Veterinary Products Committee, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate considers a very large quantity of published scientific literature on organophosphates, including papers on the effects in animals and humans. A list of references has been placed in the Library of the House. Information received from commercial companies in support of applications for marketing authorisations for veterinary medicinal produce is subject to the confidentiality restrictions of section 118 of the Medicines Act 1968.
§ Mr. CarlileTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the risks to people and the environment of(a) Propetamphos and (b) Diazinon, when used in organophosphorus sheep dips. [35515]
§ Mrs. Browning[holding answer 8 July 1996]: Organophosphates for use on sheep and cattle are classified as veterinary medicines. Before they may be marketed in the UK all veterinary medicines, including organophosphorus sheep dips containing Propetamphos and Diazinon, must be authorised in accordance with EC and UK legislation. This requires assessment of scientific data provided by the applicant company against the statutory criteria of safety, quality and efficacy, to ensure that they are safe and effective when used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, including the wearing of protective clothing where appropriate. Safety includes safety to the operator, to the consumer of any food products from treated animals, to the environment, and the health and welfare of the treated animal.