The neonicitinoid pesticide ban has been taken without enough evidence of harm to bees.
That’s the opinion of farmer and conservationist Nicholas Watts, of Deeping St Nicholas, and Holbeach Fen beekeeper Mike Titterton.
Nicholas Watts believes the pesticides do affect bees, but says: “Any insecticide will. I don’t know enough about it but I think it should be banned until the people who are marketing the spray have more evidence.
“Everyone has a war with insects, but they are the basis of all life. The problem is we get rid of bees, we get rid of pollinators.”
Mike Titterton says it is impossible to have an informed opinion because there isn’t enough information and because the data available is too technical . However, he says things shouldn’t be allowed on the market until they are proved to be safe.
Ironically, Mike currently has the healthiest bees he’s ever had, but says the situation varies between neighbours.