'Although there has been some improvement, the number of undesirable residues found in winter lettuce is still too high,' said food and farming minister Lord Whitty. 'For this reason we intend to conduct a further monitoring survey of winter lettuce this year and will continue to take firm action against growers or retailers where it is necessary to eradicate the problem.' The monitoring programme will take samples from all elements along the supply chain from grower to retailer.

Robert Hugh Dixon of Gerway Nurseries was sentenced last week for two offences of contravening pesticides legislation by using banned dimethoate on his lettuce. His case was heard at Exeter Crown Court where he was given a 1 year conditional discharge for each offence and ordered to pay £5,000 costs.

A Fresh Produce Consortium spokesman said the FPC was 'fully supportive of the enforcement action taken by Defra.' Meanwhile, the Pesticides Safety Directorate has published a new advisory leaflet for growers Protected Lettuce Disease Control Avoiding Pesticide Residue Problems is being sent to all known growers of winter lettuce and further copies are available by contacting the Pesticides Safety Directorate or visiting the website at www.pesticides.gov.uk