The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) said several measures announced in the King’s Speech could have implications for pest management businesses, particularly around UK-EU relations, regulation, late payments, employment and support for the Armed Forces community.
Delivered yesterday (May 13), the King’s Speech set out the government’s legislative priorities for the new parliamentary session, with a strong focus on the cost of living, defence, economic growth and public services.
For pest management, one of the key areas to watch is the proposed European Partnership Bill, which aims to strengthen ties with the European Union.
BPCA said this could be significant because the government is negotiating a new Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement with the EU. The agreement is expected to include the Biocidal Products Regulations, which govern the approval of active substances and the authorisation of biocidal products.
If implemented, the agreement could affect chemical pest management products, including availability, authorisations, costs and future innovation.
The King’s Speech also included plans to tackle late payments through a Small Business Protections Bill. Proposals include maximum payment terms of 60 days, mandatory interest on late payments, limits on late invoice disputes and stronger powers for the Small Business Commissioner.
BPCA said this will be relevant to many pest management companies, particularly smaller servicing businesses where late payment can affect cashflow, training, vehicles, equipment and staffing.
The government also announced plans to reduce unnecessary regulation and give some regulators a legal mandate to prioritise growth. The list is expected to include Natural England and the Health and Safety Executive, both of which have important functions for pest management.
Employment and skills were also covered, with measures expected to address youth unemployment. BPCA says pest management has a strong story to tell as a practical, skilled and varied career, and will continue its work with the Department for Work and Pensions to promote the sector to new entrants.
A new Armed Forces Bill is also expected to strengthen the Armed Forces Covenant in law. BPCA, which is an Armed Forces Covenant signatory, welcomed moves to improve support for serving personnel, veterans and their families.
BPCA said it will continue to monitor the detail as Bills are published and move through Parliament, particularly where proposals affect pest management businesses, products, employment, regulation and professional standards.
