Bee-killing pesticides banned in EU found at unsafe levels in English rivers

Government accused of ignoring science' as it considers allowing use of a toxic neonicotinoid

Bee-killing pesticides have been found at dangerous levels in English rivers, as the government considers allowing the use of one that is banned in the EU.

Environmental groups and farmers are waiting to hear whether a toxic neonicotinoid, thiamethoxam, will be approved by the government for English sugar beet farms for a fourth consecutive year. Wildlife campaigners say it is unacceptable" that ministers have ignored the science" and allowed the use of these dangerous chemicals.