Bee decline could spell disaster
October 13, 2011 3:27 PM
A decline in the bee population could have serious economic consequences, warns North East MEP Fiona Hall.
With bees playing a significant role in the production of food, the predicted 10% drop in the bee population could cost billions of pounds.
Fiona Hall said,
"Over 80% of crops rely on insect pollination and anything that reduces bee numbers reduces our capacity to grow food.
"There is mounting evidence that the main cause of this fall in population is the systemic pesticides currently being used. We need a study into their long-term impact and I have signed a Written Declaration in Parliament which calls for exactly that.
"Foodstocks and the livelihood of farmers will be hit if we fail to take action."