Europe 'sows confusion on GM'

Published on Tuesday 13 July 2010 20:42

NFU Scotland last night hit out at "confused" proposals from the European Commission in Brussels to effectively nationalise the approval process for the planting of crops derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

The move will be welcomed by the Scottish Government, which is totally opposed to the introduction of GMOs, but is a blow to those seeking a more scientifically-based approval process.

The commission proposes to retain its role in authorising GMOs but will allow member states the freedom to allow, restrict or ban cultivation. New co-existence measures are also being introduced to reduce the risk of GM crops contaminating nearby conventional or organic crops.

NFUS president Jim McLaren accused the commission of washing its hands of the subject and leaving European farmers and consumers to the political whims of national or regional governments.

"The big danger is that the science behind the role that GM may have will be lost, the need for research and development stifled and emotion will continue to take precedence," said McLaren.

"There is a danger that GM policy will change with every election which is a recipe for confusion and will hold back progress in establishing what role new technology may play in the future. That could be to Scotland's detriment.

"Our institutes are well placed to decide in an unbiased, scientific manner if GMO or any emerging biotechnology has a place in the way we produce food in Scotland."

Scottish MEP Alyn Smith for different reasons, condemned the move as a "dirty deal" and warned that the proposals would give the UK government the right to force GM cultivation in Scotland against the wishes of the Scottish Government."