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Catherine backs EU bid to boost honeybees
December 5, 2011 9:10 PM
Catherine Bearder - campaigning Lib Dem MEP
Honeybee health in the spotlight
A bid to protect up to 50,000 beehives across South East England has been backed by Lib Dem Catherine Bearder MEP.
The European Parliament voted in November on a report in Strasbourg outlining measures to protect bees following an increase in the species' mortality rate.
It highlighted that 84 per cent of plant species and 76 per cent of food production in Europe are dependent on pollination by bees.
Catherine, Member of the European Parliament for South East England, said: "It really is the case as Einstein said, 'no more bees, no more pollination … no more men!'
"Bees are vital in maintaining a stable eco system for all of us.
"As I said last year when I raised the issue, Europe must address the problem of bee deaths. Quite literally, life on earth depends on it."
The report urged the European Commission to invest more money into disease prevention and how pesticides take a toll on the bee community.
Catherine added: "Our agriculture and biodiversity depends on saving the bee. We need coordinated action across Europe in research and veterinary treatment, as well as recruitment and training for young beekeepers."
The British Beekeepers Association has estimated there are between 40,000 and 50,000 beehives in South East England.
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