Written question asked by Debbie Abrahams (Labour) on Friday, 13 April 2012, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 April 2012. It was answered by Lord Grayling (Conservative) on Wednesday, 18 April 2012 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Strychnine

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what toxicity analysis has been carried out on the relative effect of strychnine pesticides on human health compared to pesticides including (a) herboxone and (b) formaldehyde.

Answer: Strychnine was not supported by industry under the relevant EU legislation dealing with pest control chemicals, and can no longer be used in pest control. No toxicity analysis has been carried out on the relative effect of strychnine on human health compared to other pesticides including herboxone and formaldehyde. Other substances that have been supported are currently being assessed at the EU level and the UK will consider these assessments as part of the normal EU process.

Secondary information