The protection of bees and current European ban on neonictinoids is a subject which continues to be of concern to a large number of people in Lewisham Deptford.

I last posted my views on the subject here.

The European Commission is currently reviewing the evidence on neonicotinoids and is expected to complete its assessment by November 2017. However, there are draft proposals for a full ban on the three most commonly used neonicotinoid pesticides that could be voted on by EU member states as early as May 2017. My Labour colleagues and I will follow developments on this closely.

The Government has said that current regulations for our environment – including the ban on neonicotinoids – will remain in place until we leave the EU, adding that it is “considering future arrangements for pesticides”, but I am concerned that many environmental protections are at risk following the outcome of the referendum.

It is vital that the Government takes a science-led approach to pesticide use and considers how best to support farmers, protect wildlife and reverse the decline of pollinators.