The Pesticides Safety Directorate, the regulatory agency for agricultural, horticultural, forestry, food storage and home garden pesticides in the UK, has published its annual report for 2003-04.

The report highlights the directorate's work regulating the registration and use of pesticides and meeting targets set by the secretary of state for environment, food and rural affairs.

In 2003/04, the directorate said it:

• met its targets for scientific quality, processing times, full cost recovery and efficiency savings in all business areas;

• led on policy matters relating to pesticides in the UK;

• played a leading role in shaping the European Regulatory system;

• continued to monitor the use of pesticides, levels of pesticides in food and the impact of pesticides on the environment;

• launched a new website providing comprehensive information on pesticide related matters;

• completed twinning projects in the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Hungary as well as identifying new business opportunities; and

• actively consulted with stakeholders in a wide range of policy and approval related matters.

Chief executive, Dr Kerr Wilson, said: "I am delighted with our achievements in 2003-04. This is a tribute to the skill and dedication of our staff as well as the ability of our organisation to meet the changing demands of our stakeholders.''

Copies of PSD's Annual Report and Accounts 2003-04 may be purchased from branches of The Stationery Office, ref ISBN 0-10-292828-2, price £15.20.

PSD's new website can be found at www.pesticides.gov.uk.

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