EU bracken chemical ban blocked by vote

Scottish landowners will be able to continue to use the chemical Asulam to control bracken after six European Union countries combined to form a blocking vote.

But farming leaders and Scottish politicians warned that, while the battle had been won, it was not a conclusive or final position on the issue.

Commenting on the decision to reprieve Asulam, NFUS vice-president John Picken welcomed a "step in the right direction" but warned it might only be a "temporary reprieve".

"Farmers and land managers attempting to control bracken value Asulam highly, and we appreciate the additional time to apply pressure for its retention."

George Lyon MEP took a similar line saying the blocking vote by Spain, France, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Ireland and the UK was "an important and vital step" for those owning land in upland Scotland.

With the threat that the issue might come back on to the agenda, Lyon added that he would be meeting the Commissioner next week to point out the importance of the herbicide in controlling bracken.

Alyn Smith MEP praised the "common sense" behind the decision and said that in dealing with such issues as the possible banning of Asulam, it was better to do so in a calmer fashion without vilifying EU scientists.

Picken also referred to the vital role Asulam has in controlling bracken and dock control, and the removal of it from the market would be a real blow allowing "rampart bracken growth to take over grazing ground".

He pointed to the wide range of organisations that supported the continued use of the chemical. These included Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, the Scottish Government, Defra, Natural England, the Environment Agency and NFU England and Wales.