MP raises pollution concerns over use of flea killer

An MP has called for flea treatments for cats and dogs to be restricted after raising concerns about pollution in waterways.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Rachel Gilmour, Liberal Democrat MP for Tiverton and Minehead, called for "strict" measures on the use of "spot-on" treatments, saying the chemicals used are harmful to wildlife, as well as humans.

In response, Emma Hardy, the Parliamentary Undersecretary for the Environment, said the Veterinary Medical Directorate (VMD) had commissioned research to investigate the matter.

DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) said it will publish a "roadmap" within weeks to set out the work it is doing on the issue.

Gilmour told the House of Commons she was concerned about toxic chemicals used in the treatments ending up in rivers and ponds, harming local wildlife.

One of the ways the pesticides end up in waterways is because they are carried there by pets after having the treatment.

"Dissemination can also occur because of rainwater run-off with residual product washing off from animals into drainage systems and in turn ending up in our waterways," said Gilmour.

Although she did not call for a total ban, she added: "Restrictions should be placed on the trade of Fipronil and Imidacloprid, the only exceptional continued use should come under strict conditions of prescription only via veterinary medical professionals and for a limited time period."

A report last year by Wild New Forest and the Freshwater Habitats Trust showed high levels of imidacloprid at four locations and previous research has found it negatively affected insect species.

Hardy said: "The VMD is developing the evidence base and has commissioned scientific research to investigate how these substances reach rivers and streams and they are working closely with stakeholders to collect data and address the issue and they are supporting calls for a review of the internationally agreed environmental risk assessment standards."

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