Changing the charging structure for pesticides could lead to the loss of a substantial number of minor horticulture crop sectors in the UK, the NFU warned today.

Responding to the Defra Pesticides Safety Directorate consultation on the review of the charging structure, the NFU said the proposals for specific off-label approvals (SOLA) jeopardised the viability of the minor horticulture crop sectors and urged the government to retain the current approvals system.

NFU horticulture board chairman Richard Hirst said: “This is an important issue for the horticulture industry. We don’t want any change to the system.

“We believe it is in the public interest for government to continue to support the cost of SOLA application fees, and thereby help retain a diverse and sustainable UK horticulture and agriculture industry.

“If Defra does bring about these increased charges we believe it will result in the loss of some minor crop sectors in the UK.

“This would lead to an increase in imported produce and reduce the amount of British product available for UK customers at a time when the government is actively promoting healthy eating and the value of fruit and vegetables to a healthy diet.”

Hirst added that an increase in imported produce also raises questions over the control of production standards and whether government cross-subsidisation in other countries is creating unfair competition for UK growers.

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