UK faces mounting criticism over GM crops

05 February 1999

UK faces mounting criticism over GM crops

THE UK governments policy on genetically modified (GM) crops is confused and faces mounting criticism, reports the Financial Times.

The paper reports on the governments political difficulties on the GM issue, including its keenness to keep Britain at the forefront of the technology.

“The governments handling of the issue has been characterised by cosy commercial relationships, ministerial confusion and a disregard for official environmental advice,” says the newspaper.

“But critics claim there is strong evidence ministers have failed to get a grip on the issue. They also question government motives for allowing commercial development of GM crops.”

A government scheme to use data from supermarket loyalty cards to assess possible health risks from GM foods has collapsed after retailers withdrew co-operation.

• Financial Times 05/02/99 page 11, page 18