Home > Press releases > 1997
16th Dec 1997
Friends of the Earth has hailed as a “major success” news
that the Government is urgently rethinking its view on genetically modified
food (GMOs).
Whitehall sources have confirmed to FOE that an important announcement
on GMO licensing is now expected before Christmas. The first license
due to be granted was for genetically engineered oilseed rape, used
in margarine and vegetable oils, as well as cosmetics and detergents.
The genetically modified version would make the plant resistant to the
herbicide glufosinate ammonium, allowing a big increase in herbicide
spraying of crops.
The Government has been under pressure from multi-nationals including
Monsanto and Hoechst, to grant a wide range of licenses for genetically
modified crops. MAFF ministers are believed to have be reviewing to
look at GMO licensing, and are planning an announcement on new and,
FOE hopes, more restrictive licensing procedures in the next few days.
Commenting, FOE food campaigner Adrian Bebb said:
“The news that Government ministers are rethinking the position
on GMOs is a major victory for FOE and the green lobby. Multi-nationals
are desperate to rush the UK into licensing, without proper regard for
consumer health risks, or the interests of the environment. MAFF ministers
seem to be holding the line against this pressure. For that,they deserve
the thanks of the general public. FOE believes that a moratorium on
licensing these new crops is urgently needed”.
Contact details:
Friends of the Earth
26-28 Underwood St.
LONDON
N1 7JQ
Tel: 020 7490 1555
Fax: 020 7490 0881
Web: www.foe.co.uk/feedback.html
Media team
