On Tue, 23 Apr 2013 13:29:13 +0200, Martin wrote:



From memory the EC proposals to restrict the use of neonicotinoids
failed to get the necessary qualified majority in an EU vote but the
Commission have not dropped the proposition. I understood that they
were awaiting a response from Bayer et al before proceeding.

The EU Commissioners need to provide scientific proof that the
pesticides cause a problem to bees. The onus to provide proof is on
the EU Commissioners, not Bayer. The EU Commissioners can't impose a
ban without the agreement of member states.

From a practical perspective it is, of course, unlikely that Bayer
will provide anything that will be sufficient to mollify the
Commission (eg the suggestion of wider field margins - which could
well help but is not deliverable by the pesticide manufacturers unless
they pay the farmers to implement them). Given the Commission's
stance on this matter it is very likely to persuade just sufficient
member states to amend their previous position to achieve
implementation. It will be interesting to observe the machinations.
--
rbel