The NFU says the Government is right to lead the discussion on GM technology and highlight why it can be used to help farmers produce more food for a growing population.
Unsurprisingly, the Green Party of UK opposes the move, unconvinced about the safety of GM, not just for humans but also considering the impact they have on eco-systems where they are released and on biodiversity.
UK Environment Secretary Owen Paterson last month stepped up his campaign to have GM crops grown in Britain. He said genetically modified crops are “categorically” safer than conventional crops because they are subjected to much greater scrutiny than traditional varieties.
Paterson used a speech in Hertfordshire to promote genetic engineering of plants and called on the government, industry and scientists to join forces to convert the public in the face of widespread fear and scepticism.
He says GM crops were safer than conventional ones because they use “more precise technology and [come under] greater regulatory scrutiny”. “These products go through the most rigorous system. It’s extraordinarily closely regulated, at a national level and at a European level…We have not come up with any evidence of human health being threatened by these products.”
Paterson, who ultimately wants the European Union to relax tight restrictions on growing GM plants, wants to make Britain a centre for GM research and development, potentially a multi-billion pound industry.
He has support from UK farmers. The NFU now wants to ensure a clear framework for R&D, regulation and commercialisation – sooner rather than later.
NFU President Peter Kendall applauded Paterson for showing leadership on this issue. “The NFU agrees that the UK, which is the natural home for science research, should be at the forefront of providing agricultural solutions not watching from the sidelines.
“Rightly so, farmers fear being left behind. As Mr Paterson said, I also want British farmers to be able to develop the latest technologies so they can reap economic and environmental benefits.
“I welcome his commitment to getting the EU approvals system working. The Environment Secretary also asked all interested parties to help him and said he would back them in return. I, and the NFU, will take up this challenge.”
Green Party Euro Candidate for London, Caroline Allen is surprised that no one actually monitors any adverse effects of GM. She also wants checks if the claims made by GM companies about benefits are real.
“Paterson mentions there is no scientific evidence shown directly linking GMOs to higher risk environment or safety, but lacks to go into detail. It is clear that genuine, independent epidemiological studies are required into the impacts of GM food, but are currently lacking.”
