THE NFU will fight any moves to impose buffer zones around farms.

Defra has suggested that a 300m no-spray zone on land next to housing would address the "public's perception of risk from pest control products".

The NFU says the measure would take 1.4m hectares of arable land out of production in England and Wales and warns that the Government would risk undermining public confidence in its own regulatory process, were it to introduce such zones.

"The Government has confirmed that these products are safe after rigorous testing for bystanders and the wider environment," said Michael Paske, NFU vice president.

The NFU submission was to be handed in to the Government today. It asked how the Government would define a scientifically rigorous buffer zone when science did not support any risk. Enforcement powers already existed to prosecute farmers found to be spraying irresponsibly without regard to product drift.

The submission also highlights farmers' efforts to maintain good relations with neighbours, including the use of codes of best practice and additional measures including ongoing training and the registration of sprayer operators as part of the industry's voluntary initiative.

It also expresses concern about the economic viability of the proposals for farms, particularly horticultural businesses, were they to be forced to reduce the area they could cultivate.

It raises issues of weed control and the potential for extended field borders becoming a dumping ground for garden refuse.