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OUR COUNTRYSIDE "A GENETIC LABORATORY" FOR MULTINATIONALS Shock New Research From FOE Shows 300 Genetic Sites
12 April 1998
Friends of the Earth (FOE) has analysed Government approvals for genetic engineered test sites over the past 5 years, and has identified 310 test sites in the UK countryside. Most sites are testing crops that can withstand doses of weedkiller, in particular AgrEvo's Challenge and Monsanto'sRoundUp. No genetically modified crops can be grown commercially in the UK at present.But FOE's research shows that genetically engineered crops are widely grown on an experimental basis. Some test sites are the size of one hundred football pitches.
Public consultation on test sites has been virtually non-existent. Companies must put a notice in a local newspaper but no formal consultation takes place. No application has been turned down due to local opposition. Friends of the Earth even has evidence of sites given the go ahead before the end of the period allowed for the public to comment to the Government's biotech watchdog (Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment).
Commenting, Adrian Bebb, Biotechnology Campaigner at Friends of the Earth, said:
Genetic pollution is irretrievable and, unlike an oil spill, cannot be cleaned up.Once out in the environment these new organisms can replicate and reproduce.The long term consequences of allowing so many test sites are unknown and frankly reckless given our present understanding of this technology.
If your neighbour wants to build an extension you have the right to object and be heard. But when it comes to growing genetically engineered crops the public and farmers have no influence. Public consultation on this vital issue has been pitiful and meaningless.
| A full list of all UK genetic engineering test sites is available. |
You will also find useful information on www.oneworld.org/guides/biotech/front.html
If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.
Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jul 2008
