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1 February 2000
NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH AGROCHEMICALS INDUSTRY
WELCOMED: TIMMS
Proposals to minimise the environmental impact of pesticides through voluntary action were today welcomed by Stephen Timms, Financial Secretary to the Treasury.
"The Government is committed to minimising the environmental impact of pesticides use, consistent with adequate crop protection," Stephen Timms said.
"The proposals brought forward by the British Agrochemicals Association form a useful basis for discussing with the industry and other interested parties what form a partnership approach might take.
"Subject to further detailed discussions, the Chancellor will not proceed with the introduction of a pesticides tax in the Budget."
The Government will continue to hold discussions with the industry in the run up to the Budget.
Notes for Editors
1. The Pre-Budget Report (9 November 1999) stated that the Government believes a tax or charge on the use of pesticides could be a useful tool in addressing the environmental impacts of pesticides, but the Government would explore with the agrochemical industry whether its objectives could be better achieved through a partnership approach between the Government and industry.
2. Since then the British Agrochemicals industry has come forward with initial proposals on the form that a partnership approach might take. The Government believes that a voluntary approach has the potential to take forward its objectives to minimise the use of pesticides consistent with adequate crop protection.