GM crops up again

The confusion surrounding the GM debate reached Haverfordwest Town Council chamber last week with councillors unsure whether they should make recommendations on the Issue.

A recommendation was reached stating the council believed commercial production of GM crops should not be undertaken due to a lack of proven safety to the environment and human health.

BY STEVE ADAMS

The proposed GM crop trials two years ago united young and old in their opposition.

GENETICALLY modified crops could soon be growing in Pembrokeshire after the Department of the Environment confirmed last week it was considering a number of applications to allow the crops into the UK.

Two years ago the growing of GM maize at Castle Cenlas Farm, Mathry was halted at the 11th hour thanks to a campaign, spear­headed by the Western Telegraph, to keep the county GM free.

The DoE spokesman said up to 20 licences to grow GM crops and products in the UK were currently being considered, but no decision on granting the growing licences would be taken until the new year.

Ellie Clegg, of Pembrokeshire Friends of the Earth, said: "There are so many unknowns involved in GM crops. There was such a popular movement across the country last time and people had such strong feelings. It is an insult to try and do this again without some consultation."

Anti-GM campaigners have been further outraged by the claim that the Assembly's GM Free Wales policy could be deemed illegal under European law.

Dr Brian John, of GM Free Cymru, said: "They say they are bound by what Europe decides, but every licence application has to be approved by the relevant authorities - in this case, the National Assembly."

Julian Rosser, Friends of the Earth Cymru, said: "The Assembly cannot just say, 'we are GM free,' and that is it. The question they have to ask themselves is, 'will we be subject to a legal action and, if so, will we win it?'

"It is time for the Assembly to make a decision and stand by it."

Friends of the Earth Cymru has begun a series of petitions opposing the intro­duction of GM crops and will be taking further action.

Western Telegraph, dateline 11 June 2003