Thank you for contacting me about pesticides in future trade deals.

I understand the strength of feeling on this issue. The current high standards of pesticides in the UK safeguards people and the environment from any potential harm, and consumers want to know that these standards will remain. I do not support relaxing the UK’s high standards in any new trade agreements.

At the end of the Transition Period, the UK will be in a position to decide its own regulations on pesticides. This will enable the UK to develop its own dynamic system, that will continue to deliver high standards of protection for the environment and people.

I understand that the Government has been engaging with the agricultural sector in trade discussions, including the National Farmers Union. I encourage these engagements to continue and am confident that the concerns of farmers and other parties are well represented to the Government during discussions.

Thank you for taking the time to contact me.