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Gm crops: commercial planting possibly weeks away?
3 February 1999
Friends of the Earth is today seeking clarification from Agriculture Minister Jeff Rooker following comments he made today on the commercial planting of genetically modified crops. In today's adjournment debate in the House of Commons Mr Rooker said that there was “none planned, and when it does happen it will be a controlled introduction, it will not be a free-for-all”. However, licences have already been granted for the commercial planting of oilseed, fodder beet and maize for seed production. Under the licences,planting could start this spring.
Pete Riley, Food Campaigner at Friends of the Earth said:
“Despite Mr Rooker's reassuring words, the first commercially grown GM crops could be planted in our fields in the next few months unless the Government takes steps to stop them. We are writing to the Minister to find out what the Government is doing to prevent companies covering our fields in these mutant crops in the spring.”
Pete Riley continued:
“Today's House of Common's debate on genetically modified food has shown considerable concern inside Parliament as well as outside, with every MP that spoke voicing concern. Sadly Mr Rooker has done nothing to reassure us that the Government is prepared to stand up for the public against the interests of the big biotech companies.”
Notes
[1] The marketing consents are for seed production only, and not for adding too human or animal food production.
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jul 2008
