Archived press release

Biotech firm's failed bid for GM crop secrecy

28 September 2003

Biotech company, Bayer CropScience, has failed in an attempt to allow GM crop trials to be grown in secret it has been revealed today. The move was reportedly blocked by Environment

Secretary Margaret Beckett.

According to today's report [1] the company was "close to a deal that would allow GM crop test sites to be kept secret. Instead of having to publish exact map references for fields, companies would only have to name the county in which it was holding a trial."

Bayer has apparently responded to Beckett's refusal to change the regulations by pulling out of planned GM trials. A Bayer official is quoted as saying that it has "no choice, therefore, but to cease its variety trial activities in the UK for this coming season"

Friends of the Earth's GM campaigner Pete Riley said:

"Attempts to grow GM crop trials in secret reveals a staggering contempt for public opinion and total disregard for farmers and beekeepers around the country who want to meet the huge demand for GM-free food. If you don't know where GM trials are taking place, you can't take steps to avoid contamination. Thank goodness Margaret Beckett has knocked this desperate bid on the head."

"It is clear that most people up and down the country do not want GM food or crops. So Bayer's pledge to quit growing GM crop trials will be warmly welcomed."

Note

1.Observer 28 October "GM firm quits as trials halt"

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Archived press release

Biotech firm's failed bid for GM crop secrecy

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