Swede and turnip growers have been granted continued approval to use chlorfenvinphos on their crops.

The chemical, used for the control of cabbage root fly, was due to be revoked at the end of 2001 under a UK review of all anticholinesterase compounds, introduced in May 1998 by Jeff Rooker, agriculture minister at the time.

Announcing the decision on January 23, food minister Lord Whitty said: 'The swede and turnip industry in the UK is a niche market, supplying the majority of British based supermarkets.

'Growers would be seriously disadvantaged by the loss of this compound. By allowing it to continue we are maintaining the UK grower's competitive position within Europe. I am satisfied that there is no risk to the consumer.' However, Whitty went on to warn that, as planned, chlorfenvinphos will be withdrawn throughout Europe from July 2003. The special case approval in the UK will continue until July 23, 2003, when the compound is revoked under a European review of agricultural chemical inputs.

The race is now on to find a suitable replacement for the chemical, as there are no viable alternatives on the market at present.

Lord Whitty and other officials from the department of the environment, food and rural affairs, including head Margaret Beckett, Michael Meacher and Elliott Morley, were among the hosts at a buffet reception for members of the trade and national press at Defra headquarters on January 23. The Defra feast showcased the best of British food and drink.

In a short welcoming speech to guests, Beckett, pictured, said Defra's first year had been a difficult one due to the foot and mouth crisis. But she added that in spite of this the new ministry had already made numerous positive advances for UK agriculture and was committed to continuing to do so into the future.

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