GOVERNMENT MUST RETHINK GM STRATEGY

12.05.00pm GMT Tue 22nd Jul 2003

Commenting on the publication of the GM Science Review, which identifies gaps in research on the environmental effects of GM crops, Hereford's Liberal Democrat MP, Paul Keetch, who has opposed GM trials said:

"The notes of caution in the scientific review send a strong message to the Government. There simply isn't enough scientific evidence to reassure people that GMOs are safe for them or the environment in the future.

"It is difficult not to be cynical about the timing of all this. The scientific review is being published just one working day after the GM Nation debate had closed.

"The findings from the Government's Farm Scale Trials will not be published until September, so why didn't they postpone the scientific review and public debate to take this into account?

"It is clear that retailers don't want to market the stuff, the Downing Street Strategy Unit last week admitted that there was no market for it, and I would certainly warn farmers not to touch it with a barge pole unless they wanted to face a public relations disaster.

"Decisions on GM should be based on sound science, not 'quick', 'make do' or 'hasty' science.

"If ever a political decision required caution, then this is it. Without adequate science in place we run the serious risk of taking an irreversible decision in haste, which we could regret at our leisure for many years to come.

"Only when issues of liability, the farm scale trials and human health impact studies have been completed and reported, will it be appropriate to revisit GMs.

"The Government must rethink GM and face down pressure from the bio tech giants and the United States and not be forced into making a hasty decision."