HC Deb 26 June 1997 vol 296 cc631-2W
Mr. Martyn Jones

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what research or data his Department has(a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on the presence of pesticides currently banned in the United Kingdom as residues on imported food; and if he will make a statement. [5163]

Mr. Rooker

The Working Party on Pesticide Residues analyses 3,000 to 4,000 samples annually of a wide range of imported and UK-produced commodities. Each sample is analysed for up to 100 different pesticides, including those which have been banned in the UK. This monitoring programme cost £2 million in 1996–97. In recent years, although residues of banned pesticides have occasionally been detected, none has exceeded internationally agreed safety levels.

The full results of the Working Party's monitoring are published annually and the report for 1996 is expected to be published in September 1997.

Mr. Jones

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on his policy with regard to the release of brand names with the results of pesticide residue tests. [5164]

Mr. Rooker

The Working Party on Pesticide Residues undertakes a large surveillance programme and publishes the results in an annual report with includes details of the countries of origin of samples where this can be determined. More generally, I am currently reviewing ways to improve reporting the results of all surveys including the release of brand names. I intend to make a further statement in the near future.

Mr. Blizzard

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to ensure that chemicals used to spray crops do not damage the environment. [5190]

Mr. Rooker

Only approved pesticides can be advertised, sold, supplied, stored or used. Applicants for approvals must show that their products pose no unacceptable risks to humans, animals or the environment before approval will be granted. The Registration Handbook outlines the comprehensive data which must be submitted in support of an application. These data are scrutinised by the independent experts of the Advisory Committee on Pesticides before a recommendation is made to Ministers in the five Government Departments responsible for pesticides.

All approved pesticide products are subject to routine review but may be reviewed at any time if any evidence emerges concerning their safety.