Fears that an explosion in rat and mice numbers could result from a new EU law intended to curb the use of dangerous chemicals have been calmed.

A meeting called by Tameside Euro-MP Chris Davies to give public health and safety experts the chance to explain their concerns to Brussels officials has paid off.

In a formal response to a parliamentary question, EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potonik has now promised ‘open discussions’ to ensure that rodenticides can continue for essential uses.

Davies said: “Problems such as the damage that rats and mice can do to electrical wiring in buildings had been overlooked by the Commission when it drafted its proposal. Good law making requires listening and learning.”