HC Deb 10 May 2000 vol 349 cc428-9W
Mr. Woolas

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to speed up the issuing of licences for the prescription of strychnine hydrochloride for mole eradication. [120654]

Ms Quin

Strychnine hydrochloride is a dangerous substance and strict controls are in place to regulate its circulation and use. Applications for permits to use it to kill moles are considered by MAFF's Regional Service Centres (RSCs), which issue the permit or refuse the application within 15 working days of receipt of the completed application. The established standard is quoted in the public statement of RSC customer service standards—"Commitment to Service".

During the 1999–2000 financial year, 98 per cent. of permits were issued within 15 working days despite an increase in applications of 14 per cent. from the previous year. We will continue to work and achieve the same standard in all cases.