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Sw makes stand over GM threat
25 February 2005
The South West Regional Assembly today called on food and farming in the region to be protected from GM crops, and for strict liability on GM companies [1]. The south west is the first region to take an official GM position, reflecting the massive opposition in the region - from both local people and local authorities - to GM food and crops.
The result has been welcomed by Friends of the Earth, but the environmental campaign group is disappointed that an extra point, which would have significantly strengthened the position, was blocked by the Conservative group [2]. Friends of the Earth's Regional Campaigns Coordinator in the South West Mike Birkin said:
"Congratulations to the southwest on becoming the first region in the country to take a stand on GM crops. Right across the region, local authorities and local people have rejected GM food and crops.The Government must take notice and introduce tough new laws to protect our food, farming and environment from GM contamination.
"However, we are disappointed that the Assembly didn't go further and join growing calls across Europe for decisions about GM crops to be made locally, instead of in the EU."
Notes
[1] The full Assembly meeting agreed a statement of principles:
(An amendment was added stating that the SWRA's views were indicative but it does not have responsibility for what is grown in the region).
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jun 2008
