In line with the EU, the Government confirmed yesterday (Thursday, the 23rd of January) that the emergency application for the use of a neonicotinoid pesticide, Cruiser B, on sugar beet in England will not be granted. Cruiser B contains the neonicotinoid thiamethoxam and is used on sugar beet to kill the aphids that spread Virus Yellows. Every year since leaving the EU, the UK provisionally agreed to the emergency use of Cruiser B.
According to the Government, the decision not to grant emergency use in 2025 is based on the assessments of environmental, health and economic risks and benefits, and advice from Defra’s Chief Scientific Adviser, its economists, the Health and Safety Executive and the UK Expert Committee on Pesticides. The Government states that there is clear and abundant evidence that Cruiser B is extremely toxic to pollinators, such as bees. Even at doses that are not directly fatal to bees, it can cause cognitive problems impacting foraging abilities and the productivity of hives.
Environment Minister, Emma Hardy said: “Britain is currently one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. This government is committed to protecting bees from toxic neonicotinoid pesticides, while working with our farmers to find new ways to protect crops and support a profitable farming sector. We recognise the threat that virus yellows can pose to sugar beet growers, and we will continue to support industry to develop alternatives to neonicotinoids on sugar beet that are effective at high levels of yellows virus infection.”
Julie Williams, CEO of Butterfly Conservation, said: “The decision to not allow the use of banned harmful neonicotinoids in the UK in 2025 is an important win for butterflies, our countryside and its custodians who want to see it thrive. It is clear through the support of Butterfly Conservation’s campaigning on this issue, and the actions of people across the country, that the magnitude of the nature crisis is a threat that concerns all of us, no matter where we live or work. This win is a testament to all the people who have campaigned against pesticide use – from nature friendly farming groups to after-school clubs and community networks. Together, we can bring butterflies back from the brink through actions like this. Not authorising use of neonicotinoid pesticides in 2025 is an important first step, and the Government must now follow through with permanently banning the use of these pesticides with no exception. Butterfly Conservation looks forward to working with Defra using the latest science and data from our world-class resources to remove all obstacles to the recovery of our pollinators. Now is the time for the Government to step up and support farmers to manage their land sustainably for the benefit of people and nature.”
Defra has stated that it will support farmers to tackle pests effectively and sustainably and help farmers to use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques through the Sustainable Farming Incentive to reduce the need for chemical pesticides while boosting crop health and resilience. The government added that it has provided research funding through the Farming Futures Fund to look at the potential for precision breeding in producing virus-resistant varieties of sugar beet.