Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask His Majesty's Government when they intend to make a decision on the application by British Sugar and the National Farmers’ Union to be allowed to use the neonicotinoid Cruiser SB, which contains thiamethoxam, on sugar beet in 2025; and how many representations they have received on the issue.

A decision on the emergency authorisation application from British Sugar and the National Farmers’ Union to use the neonicotinoid Cruiser SB, which contains thiamethoxam, on sugar beet in 2025 will be taken in line with legal requirements. The Secretary of State will take full account of the available evidence and expert advice, and a decision will be made in due course.

At the time of writing, Defra has received a significant number of representations on this issue, reflecting the strength of interest from a range of interested organisations and members of the public.