HC Deb 06 April 1998 vol 310 cc84-5W
Dr. Gibson

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what evaluation he has made of the effects of bromoxynil on infants. [37587]

Mr. Rooker

Bromoxynil is approved as a herbicide for a variety of professional uses in agriculture and horticulture. The compound was reviewed by the independent Advisory Committee on Pesticides in 1989 following the submission of new data by the approval holder. The review found no grounds for concern about the effects of bromoxynil residues in food on infants.

However, the Committee advised that the new data showed reduced safety margins for those using certain products and the Government took action to restrict exposure to acceptable levels.

Dr. Gibson

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what research he is undertaking on the presence of vinclozolin in wine, fruit and vegetables. [37588]

Mr. Rooker

This Department is not undertaking any specific research projects regarding the presence of vinclozolin in food. However, the Working Party on Pesticide Residues carries out an annual monitoring programme for pesticide residues, including vinclozolin, in food. In the 1998 programme, it is proposed to seek residues of vinclozolin in wine, 8 kinds of fruit, 11 kinds of vegetables and 7 other commodities. The results of these surveys will be available in the Working Party's Annual Report for 1998, to be published in 1999.

Dr. Gibson

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what estimate he has made of the costs to(a) farmers and (b) others accruing from pesticide use. [37590]

Mr. Rooker

The direct cost to farmers purchasing pesticide products in 1997 is estimated at about £460 million. In setting price limits for 1995–2000, the Office of Water Services (OfWat) assumed £530 million of capital expenditure on measures to reduce pesticide contamination to meet EC drinking water quality standards. In addition, there will be significant operating costs but these are not identified separately from other treatment programmes. These costs are met by water customers. My hon. Friend will see therefore that a policy of using less pesticides is in everyone's interests.