Sustain members Pesticide Action Network and Friends of the Earth reacted positively to the announcement that Defra had rejected a second request from the NFU and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board for permission to use neonicotinoid pesticides on an emergency basis.
The campaign groups argue that the chemicals have been conclusively shown to be seriously harmful to bees and other pollinators, and the crops and predators that depend on them.
The farmers' organisations had applied for permission to use 'neonics' to control cabbage-stem flea beetle in oilseed rape this summer. But according to PAN, yields are up and there is no need to use the chemical.
Friends of the Earth bee campaigner Dave Timms told Farming UK: 'This is great news for bees and other wildlife. We are delighted the application has been refused.'
'Despite having the advantage of secrecy, the evidence submitted by the NFU failed to convince the Government’s pesticide advisors.
'The NFU risks damaging public trust in British farming with its repeated attempts to get these dangerous pesticides back into our fields – instead they should concentrate on promoting bee-friendly ways to control crop pests.'
Find out more about Sustain's work for a fairer, greener food system here.
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
