Press release

Risk of pesticides to bees: myths busted

All current evidence shows that if neonicotinoid products are used correctly there is not an unacceptable risk to bee health.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

The myth - The Independent reported that neonicotinoid pesticides are responsible for killing bees and UK Government is refusing to take action.

The truth -  We have a robust system for assessing risks from pesticides in the UK. All current evidence shows that if neonicotinoid products are used correctly there is not an unacceptable risk to bee health. We will not hesitate to act if presented with any new evidence.

Since 2008, we have contributed more than £5million to projects on honey bee health, including research and beekeeper training. The Government’s National Bee Unit helps beekeepers prevent disease and its scientists recently discovered a potential new way to fight the varroa mite.

Published 7 January 2011