This follows Defra’s announcement yesterday afternoon that Farming Minister George Eustice has decided not to accept the NFU’s most recent applications.
NFU Vice President Guy Smith said: “This is a blow for arable farmers across the country whose oilseed rape crops are under heavy threat from cabbage stem flea beetle. We are disappointed with the Minister’s decision; we strongly argued the case on behalf of our members.
“We remain committed to obtaining approval for the emergency use of neonicotinoid seed treatments for this planting season. These plant protection products are absolutely vital in protecting England’s oilseed rape crop from pests.
“We are currently looking into making further applications.”