MEMBERS of the Country Land and Business Association have been shocked by letters from Defra which detail plans to ban the use of strychnine from September 1, 2006.

While recognising that strychnine is a dangerous chemical that is banned in other EU states, CLA is concerned that the broad scale lush pasture of the British countryside is a breeding ground for moles and thus the UK needs to retain this effective method.

Moles can be controlled in gardens and amenity grounds by other means, but at field scale level strychnine is an important tool which should be maintained for use in appropriate and limited circumstances, in accordance with the existing Defra licensing regime, the CLA claims.

CLA West Midland adviser Donna Tavernor said: "I understand that strychnine is a very effective poison with which to control moles. We will be in for an explosion of moles when strychnine is banned and this will be particularly detrimental to livestock farmers. Soil contamination in silage will be the biggest problem and that can lead to livestock deaths."

The Defra proposals arise as the result of two EU directives. The CLA is calling on Defra to secure a derogation for a continued safe and licensed use of strychnine in the limited circumstances where it is necessary.