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News Releases Disappointing decision by EU Agriculture Ministers 24 June 2008 The decision by EU agriculture ministers to accept the EU Commission’s proposal for new “cut off” criteria in agrochemical approvals has been described as “very disappointing” by leading agricultural charity the British Crop Protection Council (BCPC). “Monday’s outcome reflects both bad science and dysfunctional process,” said Dr Colin Ruscoe of BCPC. “Member states did not seek evidence for health benefits or on the Commission’s claims of low effect on agriculture. Only the UK commissioned impact studies”. The agriculture council adopted a political agreement on the revision of Directive 91/414 by a qualified majority. The United Kingdom, Ireland, Hungary and Romania abstained from voting. “In spite of the UK Government’s best efforts, a decision based on good science was rejected,” said Dr Ruscoe. Following Monday’s vote the proposals will now move to the European Parliament in September. Parliament’s proposals will take the Commission’s recommendations further, leading to a ban of over 80% of present agrochemicals. The British Crop Production Council, The British Retail Consortium, The Food & Drink Federation, The National Farmers Union and the Crop Protection Association have briefed ministers on the impact of these proposals, highlighting that they will have a devastating effect on food availability and price. “Despite this disappointing setback there is still time for influence to be brought to bear on the European Parliament. It is vital that we work with our food chain partners, and the Government, to help MEP’s appreciate the consequences of this proposed legislation and that this highly regulated industry does not need further draconian measures in order to safeguard consumers,” added Dr Ruscoe. |
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