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European vote on banning bee-harming pesticides delayed until 2018

news release

Outdoor ban on neonicotinoid pesticides needed to help protect bees, says Friends of the Earth

European Commission proposals for a complete outdoor ban on three neonicotinoids were discussed by member states today – but no vote was taken. The issue is expected to be on the agenda again in early 2018.

Friends of the Earth bee campaigner Sandra Bell said:

“More delays to a full ban on bee-harming neonicotinoids are bad news for our precious pollinators and will cause more uncertainty for farmers.

“The science is clear: these three neonicotinoids harm bees. That’s why a tougher ban has already been backed by the UK government.

“EU governments must get off the fence by backing a ban on these chemicals, and getting on with supporting a sustainable future for farming.”

ENDS

Discussions took place at the European Commission’s Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed

 

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