The European Ombudsperson, P. Nikiforos Diamandouros, has today launched an investigation into whether the European Commission has been negligent in its action to prevent mass bee die-offs in Europe. The investigation is in response to concerns raised by an Austrian ombudsperson that the Commission has failed to take appropriate action following the release of new scientific evidence linking controversial insecticides with increased bee mortality.

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The ombudsperson asked the Commission to submit an opinion by 30th June on whether its response has been appropriate. The insecticides in question, neonicotinoids, have been the subject of much research in recent years. Their use has been heavily restricted in a number of EU states, including France, since they were first linked with adverse effects on pollinators and other beneficial insects.

Diamandouros today alleged the Commission has “Failed to take appropriate measures to address the issue of bee mortality linked to the use of certain neonicotinoids, such as clothianidin, thiamethoxam, fipronil, and imidacloprid, despite the availability of new scientific evidence highlighting the risks involved in the use of these substances.” The official is recommending the Commission review the licenses for substances in question.

Several studies released between March and April this year have identified adverse effects to the bees linked to pesticide use, even when used within limits assumed to be safe.

Last week, a Defra spokesperson said that the UK has a “robust system for assessing risks from pesticides” and stated “The evidence shows neonicotinoids do not pose an unacceptable risk to honey bees when products are used correctly.”

In light of today’s developments, and with environmental groups including Friends of the Earth calling for a review of the pesticides, another department spokesperson said that the government’s position has not changed in the immediate term. However, the spokesperson said that, Defra would review the new evidence and acknowledged that changes at a European level or new research findings could lead to a change in the government’s stance.

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