Toxic chemical sperm link call

Toxic chemicals could affect fertility

The first minister has called on Scots scientists to be at the forefront of research into the possible effects of toxic chemicals on human health.

New EU proposals are expected within 18 months aimed at controlling or even phasing out harmful chemicals.

Jack McConnell told MSPs the Scottish Executive would play a full part in a UK-wide consultation into the matter.

Environmentalists have said toxic chemicals could be to blame for falling sperm counts in British men.

Decreases in fertility

Earlier this week, an Aberdeen University study showed that between 1989 and 2002, sperm concentrations had fallen by 29%.

Drug use, alcohol, smoking and obesity have also been blamed for a decline in the number and quality of sperm.

But pesticides, chemicals and radioactive material have also been linked to decreases in fertility.

Green Party leader Robin Harper asked Mr McConnell whether the executive was aware of any proven link between toxic chemicals and falling sperm counts.

I would certainly want to encourage as many Scots scientists who could be at the forefront of this research to pursue this Jack McConnell

The first minister said there was no established link at the moment, but pledged that the executive would take heed of any new research findings.

Mr McConnell said: "Further research is required in this matter.

"I would certainly want to encourage as many Scots scientists who could be at the forefront of this research to pursue this.

"I'm sure that as a government we would want to look at the research they produce with great care and take that on board with our policy decisions."