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Foe hails "success" on genetically modified food
16 December 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”.
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jun 2008
