UK biopesticides scheme updated

The UK regulatory authority has announced that they are conducting a review of the biopesticides scheme to ensure that the correct balance is being achieved between legal requirements, risk assessment, general Government policy and cost recovery within the authorisations process.  The outcome of this review is expected by the end of 2012.

In the interim CRD has introduced a refinement to the procedures of the biopesticide scheme with a view to maximising the likelihood of a successful application, as follows:

At the pre-submission stage and completeness stage, CRD will be carrying out a more in-depth investigation, in particular in areas known to cause delay and problems at later stages of dossier evaluation.  In particular clarification will be sought to ensure that the information in the dossier adequately informs and supports all areas of risk assessment.  Applicants can expect to be asked for as full details as is practical for their active substance(s), particularly regarding identity and issues such as natural background levels. By ensuring these issues are adequately addressed at the earliest opportunity will provide applicants with the best chance of a positive outcome.