§ Mr. BaldryTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the Government's intention with regard to a tax on pesticides. [94940]
§ Mr. TimmsNo decision has been taken on whether to introduce a tax on the use of pesticides.
Research commissioned by the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions on a possible tax or charge on pesticides was published on 24 March focusing on various design options for a charge scheme or tax, and attempting to evaluate the potential impact. Views were invited on the issues raised in the research and this consultation exercise closed on 24 June. The Government are considering the findings of the research project and the views expressed in the consultation exercise in deciding how best to proceed.