Newsdesk

GM Crops danger to environment confirmed

2nd October 2003

Genetically-modified sugar beet and oil seed rape have been found to be more damaging to the environment than conventional crops, say scientists reporting to the Government this week (1). They are likely to recommend a ban on these crops. This is good news for organic farmers, since their crops can be safe from the GM contamination prevalent in the USA where GM crops are used. The public can retain their choice of organic food, free of contamination. Hazel Dawe comments:

"Problems with GM crops have included concerns about superweeds, toxic substances damaging wildlife or birds, allergies and over-use of antibiotics leading to widespread resistance to antibiotics (2). Insects and weeds have been shown to be significantly less numerous amongst GM sugar beet and oil seed rape, implying a loss of food and habitat to other species. But we never wanted GMs in the first place. The 'GM Nation' debate showed only 2% of those participating wanted GM crops (3). Even those who were impartial at the start of the GM Nation debate have been found to become hostile to GMs when fully informed on the topic (4). The more GM crops are used, the less biodiversity we will have (5). We do not want GM crop trials like those which have taken place at Ivychurch and High Halden, we want more organic foods, more farmers markets and more sustainable jobs in the Kent countryside. Perhaps the Government will listen now, if Tony Blair can find reverse gear." ENDS c252 words

FURTHER INFORMATION: Hazel Dawe on 07960 956272 or 01233 645167. Contact address: 10 Hillbrow Road, Ashford, Kent TN23 4QH.

Notes: 1. Paul Brown GM crops fail key trials amid environment fear The Guardian, 2nd October 2003; 2. Caroline Lucas MEP Towards a GM free Europe: halting the spread of GMOs in Europe Office of Caroline Lucas MEP, July 2003; 3. Soil Association website: www.soilassociation.org/web/saweb.nsf/home/index.html 4. UK public strongly rejects GM foods www.newscientist.com/news.jsp?id=99994191 5. Perspectives on Biotechnology DU310 course resource document, the Open University, 2002.

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20th June 2005