Bea Perks/London, UK

The Chemical Industries Association (CIA) has released its policy priorities for the UK chemical industry to link in with the country's presidencies of the European Union and G8 and in light of a forthcoming general election.

The new priorities, presented at the House of Commons on the eve of the government's budget, focus on the need to work as closely as possible with policy makers and other stakeholders.

Public concerns over the safety of the chemical industry and the chemicals it produces 'not only need to be heard, but deserve an answer', said Judith Hackitt, director general of the CIA.

Dialogue is central to the CIA mission, says Hackitt. 'When you've read it [the priorities document], please challenge us on it!' she urged.

Hackitt was joined at the presentation by Alun Michael, minister of state for rural affairs and local environmental quality.

'The chemicals industry has earned the right to be listened to,' said Michael. He reiterated the government's pledge to see the Reach system for registration, evaluation, authorisation and restrictions of chemicals implemented with the minimum of bureaucratic pressure on industry.