Banning Mozzies 2

Mark Wallace European Union

A decade ago, the EU agreed to ban a number of biocidal products on the basis that they were deemed harmful to the public. Although they were efficient killers of bugs, it was feared that the chemicals themselves might have harmful side effects on humans.

One of these chemicals was temephos. It was due to be phased out by 14 May 2009. However, notwithstanding concerns over some increased resistance to the chemical, last month France put in for an extension of the derogation. “With regard to the magnitude of the outbreaks of mosquito-spread diseases in the French overseas departments,” agreed the Commission, “it is appropriate to continue allowing the use of temephos in situations where treatment with other substances or biocidal products is not efficient. A further extension of the phase-out period for this substance seems, therefore, necessary to allow for its replacement by other suitable substances.”

It might prove necessary to invent one first. But could this see the first clash between the newly-elected Green MEPs and the new Commission, on an issue of principle versus practicality?

Mark Wallace

Mark is a writer and political campaigner, ardent libertarian and eurosceptic.

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Colin B

Just think how much we would all save if costs were kept as low as they are for shire districts.
http://www.buttpaste.co.uk Baby

Yes and this was and still is overkill. It’s moving stateside too, boo the nanny state!