Jerry Cross of East Malling Research believes ways will have to be found to take the heat out of some of the scare stories centred on maximum residue levels and berries.

“The media firmly has pesticides in its sights, and the government’s policy of naming and shaming has significantly raised the temperature,” he said.

“Pesticides present a particularly difficult dilemma to the UK.

“They are essential to production, but using them is against the wishes of the market and consumers.

“They want it both ways, the very best quality at low prices, without pesticide use, but do not understand the complex issues involved.”

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