|
|
 
|
Strict GM laws to be proposed in 2004 (Monday, Jan. 5, 2004 -- CropChoice news) -- farminglife.com(UK) , 01/03/04: MP Gregory Barker has announced he will introduce Friends of the Earth's
''GM Contamination and Liability Bill'' to Parliament.
Speaking from a local organic farm in his constituency of Bexhill and
Battle, Mr Barker emphasised the need to preserve consumer choice through
strict laws to regulate any GM crops.
The Bill calls for a strict approach to any future planting of GM crops -
including those planted for trial purposes.
It will stipulate minimum separation distances between GM and
organic/conventional crops; clarify liability issues if the unfortunate
situation of cross-contamination occurs; and ensure the regulation of GM is
simple and that all overseeing bodies self-funded.
Mr Barker was given the opportunity to introduce a new law into Parliament
after he was drawn in the Private Members' Ballot in December.
The GM Contamination and Liability Bill was drafted by Friends of the Earth
in association with the Five Year Freeze, and is supported by many other
national organisations, including the Soil Association and the Food
Commission.
Mr Barker said: "Whether you're pro or anti GM, everyone must agree that GM
plantings cannot continue without protecting the rights of farmers to grow
organic or conventional crops.
"I look forward to ensuring the preservation of consumer choice, by
introducing a Bill that will provide strict legislation on any GM plantings
in this country."
Martyn Williams, Friends of the Earth Senior Parliamentary Campaigner said:
"We are thrilled Mr Barker has decided to introduce the GM Contamination and
Liability Bill.
"European law means member states must determine their own contamination and
liability laws. However, the Government has not announced any plans to
fulfil this important responsibility - indeed, they have never instigated a
parliamentary debate on GM.
"The GM Contamination and Liability Bill will ensure that GM Crops -
including trials - will never be planted in the UK again without proper
regulations.'
Clare Devereux, Five Year Freeze director, stated: "Despite all the evidence
that emerged over the summer in favour of a continued moratorium on GM, it
is still possible that the Government will allow commercialisation of some
crops.
"If they do, then strict laws must be in place before any more crops are
planted.
"The Government must protect consumer choice, prevent damage to the
environment and ensure that producers of GM products are held responsible
for any harm.
"We are delighted that Gregory will be representing the majority of the
public who want a cautious approach to GM by taking up this issue in
Parliament."
Source: http://www.farminglife.com/flnews/page.cfm?objectid=13774913&method=full&sit
eid=51658 | |
