To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what arrangements exist to ensure adequate training for those handling agrochemicals in agricultural production; if such training assumes a minimum level of literacy and scientific knowledge; and if he will make a statement.

Formal training in the handling and use of pesticides is available both from the agricultural training board and from the county agricultural and horticultural colleges. For safety reasons, trainees are expected to be able to read and interpret the product label, but no specific scientific knowledge is required.