Question reference: S6W-18196
- Asked by: Alexander Stewart, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 1 June 2023
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Current status: Answered by Lorna Slater on 15 June 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of the reported concerns of farmers that an emergency authorisation for the limited and controlled use of Asulox is at risk of not being made in time to control bracken during the 2023 season, whether it has come to a decision regarding any such authorisation, and, if not, when it expects to do so.
Answer
HSE, as the UK regulator for pesticides, is responsible for assessing emergency authorisation applications on behalf of governments across the UK, including for the Scottish Government. Recognising the importance of a timely response, the Scottish Government considered and promptly responded to HSE's recommendation on the application for the use of Asulox during the 2023 season. HSE will issue their decision to the applicant once all other UK governments have responded.
The Scottish Government recognises the role that Asulox has played in recent years in the control of bracken in Scotland. We will continue to work closely with stakeholders and NatureScot to consider options for sustainable bracken management.