More GM crops set for Wales

13 June 2000

More GM farm scale trials may be grown in Wales. Friends of the Earth has obtained an application (dated 11 May) from seed company Aventis to grow winter oil seed rape in England later this year which says "we will also be applying for consents for Scotland and Wales". Aventis is the company behind the controversial GM maize trial in Flintshire.

Should an application come forward from Aventis the Assembly could use its powers to deny the request. Last month the Assembly unanimously approved a motion calling for Wales to have a GM-free policy. The policy allows the Assembly - subject to legal safeguards - to reject applications for experimental releases of GM crops in Wales, unless it is confident that the release cannot damage the Welsh environment.

Friends of the Earth Cymru Real Food Campaigner Raoul Bhambral said: "It is astonishing that this seed company is prepared to grow more GM crops in Wales, despite widespread public opposition. The Welsh Assembly must stand up for Welsh interests and use its powers to reject any application. GM crops threaten the environment and the livelihoods of neighbouring farmers and beekeepers. Wales would be better served by keeping these crops out of the country and helping to supply the growing market for GM-free food."

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