Farmers face losing majority of pesticides

Current proposals heading for the European Parliament could lead to 80% of plant protection products being removed from the shelves, leaving North West farmers unable to protect their crops.

MEPs are deciding whether or not to approve changes to the 91/414 Thematic Strategy on Pesticides. If the changes are adopted in entirety, the ramifications should not be underestimated and would have effects on every sector of the farming community.

NFU’s North West crops adviser, Adam Bedford, said: "If these changes are approved it will have an effect on the horticulture and arable sectors and also has the potential to adversely affect the availability of straw and feed. Therefore it is vital North West farmers lobby MEPs on the European Parliament’s Environment Committee to vote against the changes."

This will be no easy task because this region’s key contact on the European Parliament’s Environment Committee is Liberal Democrat MEP, Chris Davies. Mr Davies voted in support of the changes at the legislation’s first reading.

"Framers, particularly arable and horticultural producers need to alert Mr Davies to the potential damage these changes would bring," added Mr Bedford.

"The impact on food production at a time of increased concerns relating to food security are significant. And the possibility of increased food prices to consumers should not be underestimated.

"The Environment Committee vote in the week commencing Monday 03 November. Letters from NFU members asking Mr Davies to support the European Council’s common position and to demand a full EU wide impact assessment should reach him before the vote."

Letters should be sent to:

Chris Davies MEP

Lib-Dem North West

87A Castle Street

Stockport

SK3 9AR