| answer text |
<p>Decisions on pesticide authorisation are based on expert assessment by the Health
and Safety Executive. The independent UK Expert Committee on Pesticides advises on
novel scientific issues. Current legislation already requires that active substances
and pesticide products have “no unacceptable effects on the environment … having particular
regard to its impact on non-target species”, which can include impacts on bees and
other pollinators.</p><p> </p><p>The scientific risk assessment relies on detailed
data requirements and processes, carried across from EU law at the end of the transition
period. The Government will ensure that these are updated to keep in step with developments
in scientific understanding. Risk assessments made for active substances are already
subject to public consultation. These assessments establish the key risks posed by
pesticide substances in representative conditions of use.</p><p> </p><p>Protecting
pollinators is a priority. The National Pollinator Strategy, developed and updated
alongside many partners following thorough scientific review, identifies pressures
on pollinators on which we are acting, including potential harm from pesticide use,
habitat loss and fragmentation, and invasive species.</p><p> </p><p>We continue making
decisions on pesticides use based on scientific risk assessments, while aiming to
achieve high levels of protection for people, wildlife, and the environment.</p>
|
|
