Early in 2005, Paul Tyler boosted a nationwide campaign started by the Radio Four programme You and Yours to end the use of ‘0870’ numbers.  The lines are advertised as ‘national rate’ yet often cost callers many times more than the charge for a normal national call.

Scandalously, various Government departments have continued to use these numbers, generating vast profits at the public's expense. The low-point of the last year, was the use of a premimum rate line for the London Bombings helpline. The Metropolitan Police have subseqeuntly apologised and the money generated was donated to charity.

The Communications Watchdog (OFCOM) is currently reviewing their advice regarding the use of these numbers, as a result of the pressure of the campaign.

Frustratingly, there continues to be unsatisfactory progress at the highest level, with an unbelievable lack of coordination across Government. Some Departments no longer use these numbers, whilst others are phasing them out across differing time scales, from a year to 18 months!

The issue of sheep dips has been of concern since the 1970s, when farmers were obliged to dip their animals against sheep scab. Sheep dippers began to complain of mysterious illnesses, and fatigue. Organophosphate sheep dips were withdrawn from the market last year as an investigation was conducted into the safe use of these products. They are now allowed back on the market, but key manufacturers have protested that the cost of producing new, safer containers is too high, and have discontinued production.

As well as their agricultural use, Organophosphates are used in a wide variety of household products, including some anti-nit shampoos and insect repellents. They are also used in aircraft engines as a lubricant.

Paul founded and chaired the All Party Organophosphate Parliamentary Group from 1992 until his retirement from the House of Commons at the 2005 General Election. The All Party Group has now merged with another All Party Group and is now referred to as the All Party Group on Pesticides and Orgaophosphates. Paul remains very active in this field, serving as a vice chair of the Group, along with former Government Secretaries of State and Ministers.

If you want to know more, please contact the Pesticide Action Network PAN UK