EU scientists approve genetically modified seed

12 February 1998

EU scientists approve genetically modified seed

By FWi staff

EUROPEAN UNION scientists have approved the marketing of genetically modified maize and rape seed.

An EU scientific advisory panel agreed that seed developed by companies Monsanto, AgrEvo and Novartis posed no threat to human or animal health.

All 15 EU member states must now endorse the findings before the seed can be made available for farmers to use commercially.

There is little chance that the UK will consider the matter until a planned public debate in France has resulted in approval by the French Government, said a spokesman for the Department of the Environment.