Call for scientific approach towards slug pellet review
A call for a science-based approach to any future review of the authorisation of metaldehyde slug pellets was made this week after the High Court this week overturned the ban made by Defra on their sale and use.
Following a technical challenge in the courts on the way in which the decision was taken by Defra to ban the product’s use, the move was declared unlawful by the court leading to an overturning of last December’s announcement that the sale of the product would be banned, with all use outdoors prohibited from 2020.
However the Court’s order confirmed that the applications for product re-authorisation remained outstanding – meaning that Defra is required to decide afresh as to whether to grant re-authorisation for the products in the longer term or to revoke the existing authorisations.
In the meantime farmers can once more buy and use metaldehyde pellets to control slugs in crops such as potatoes, oilseed rape and wheat.
A spokesperson for Defra yesterday said that the decision would be retaken as swiftly as possible, taking into account the procedural points, adding:
“Our priority is to protect people and the environment, and all decisions on pesticides are always based on the best available science.”
The news was welcomed by NFU Scotland, with vice president Charlie Adam stating that every grower and gardener knew the impact that slugs could have on crops:
“Used properly and safely, metaldehyde was a trusted part of the plant protection toolbox until its ban last winter,” said Adam.
“The High Court has decided to overturn the ruling by Defra last December to withdraw all products containing metaldehyde with immediate effect, regarding it as unlawful. That is welcome news.
“Defra are now required to decide afresh as to whether to grant reauthorisation for the products or to revoke the existing authorisations with NFUS continuing to advocate a science-based approach.
Adam said that the use of metaldehyde provided farmers with a trusted treatment that, when used properly, was both reliable and effective.
He said the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group had seen the introduction of buffer zone requirements.