A PACKAGE of voluntary pesticide measures aimed at achieving efficient farming while safeguarding the environment has been welcomed by the Country Landowners Association.

Together with six other farming-related organisations, the CLA has drawn up guidelines governing the use of crop protection chemicals, which Government is being urged to adopt as a more effective alternative to a pesticide tax.

Three Counties CLA regional director Geoffrey Hopton said: "We believe this package of voluntary measures will minimise the environmental impact of crop protection chemicals while avoiding an increased financial burden for many farmers already struggling."

He explained it was the management of pesticides, not their use, that had the greatest effect on the environment, and voluntary measures underpinned by advice, information, incentives and training would be the most effective approach.