British Pest Control Association (BPCA) welcomed Maya Ellis MP to Lancashire recently for a visit to LES Pest Management, highlighting the role of professional pest management in protecting public health.
The visit brought together Ms Ellis, BPCA chief executive Rosina Robson, and LES Pest Management managing director Paul McCann to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
As MP for Ribble Valley, where LES Pest Management is based, Ms Ellis also sits on the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, which is currently examining housing conditions across England.
Discussions focused on the essential work pest professionals carry out in safeguarding homes, businesses and public buildings, including hospitals and schools.
The visit also explored how pest management is becoming increasingly relevant within wider housing and public health policy, particularly as reforms such as Awaab’s Law continue to develop.
BPCA used the opportunity to outline key priorities for the sector, including protecting householders from pests in line with housing reforms, reviewing chemical regulation, promoting the TrustMark scheme, and restricting access to professional-use products and equipment.
Paul McCann, managing director at LES Pest Management, said: “This has been an excellent opportunity to show what professional pest management is really about: making sure that people can live safely, healthily, and comfortably within their community.”
Maya Ellis MP added: “Lancashire Environmental Services plays a vital role in keeping businesses open and protecting public health and it was admirable to hear how Paul, John and Jack are pushing for regulations that will protect more homes from pests.
“Their business has grown and diversified since the 1980s and it was interesting to hear how they’re challenging negative perceptions of pest control through investment in the professional development of their staff and in educating the public on the importance of prevention rather than cure.”
Rosina Robson, BPCA chief Executive, said: “We are proud of all of our members, including LES Pest Management, and the vital services they provide to their local communities, protecting public health.
“We are grateful for the interest that Maya Ellis has in our sector, as there is much opportunity for collaboration between MPs and BPCA to improve the regulation of our industry.”
The visit reflected growing recognition of pest management within discussions on housing standards, public health and regulation.
To learn more about BPCA’s policy work, you can click here, or if you’d like to engage with your local MP, email [email protected].
