The Latest from the UK – Operating a GB Pesticides Regime
The Latest from the UK – Operating a GB Pesticides Regime
At the Dublin Plant Protection Symposium in December 2021, Dr Christine Snaith gave a presentation titled “The Latest from the UK – Operating a GB Pesticides Regime”. She is Head of Plant Protection Products, HSE/Chemical Regulation Division (CRD) in the UK.
Christine began the presentation with the main changes that have occurred in the UK since its exit from the EU. Since 2021, the CRD has employed new staff, and they are currently investing in building capacity and capability. There is little change for Plant Protection Products (PPP) authorisations in Great Britain (GB) as regulatory standards (e.g. data requirements) and technical requirements are retained from the EU. GB will not deal with zonal and Mutual Recognition applications. Applicants must specify whether the PPP is for use in GB, Northern Ireland or both.
The presentation continued with the GB processes for Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) and Active Substance approvals. Information on the new MRL processes will be outlined on the HSE website. As an important point, outstanding MRL confirmatory data should be submitted to the HSE by the submission deadline. Active substance approvals due to expire before December 2023 have been extended for 3 years to allow time to implement the GB review program.
Christine closed her presentation by mentioning the challenges of emerging new technologies such as drones equipped with unmanned aerial spray systems. HSE has been leading international and national groups to investigate the use of drones for PPP. Christine also highlighted the current interest in increasing the availability of biopesticides in the UK to promote sustainable use.
Kerona Scientific can assist with authorisations in the UK. Contact our expert team at info@kerona.ie
If you would like a copy of the presentation, you can purchase the slides from the PPP Symposium here: https://kerona.ie/product/dublin-plant-protection-symposium-2021-speakers-presentations/