§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what research his Department has(a) commissioned and (b) evaluated into the environmental hazard associated with organophosphates. [16984]
§ Mr. GummerMy Department has commissioned a number of research projects into the environmental impact of pesticides and veterinary medicines. This work includes consideration of organophosphate compounds and covers the development of environmental quality standards, impact on headwater streams, the transport of pesticides colloids, indirect effects on farmland birds, and the impact of sea-lice treatments on sea loch ecology. All research is evaluated during and upon completion of the work.