USA attacks safety first line on GMs

31 March 2000



USA attacks ‘safety first’ line on GMs

THE USA is challenging claims that EUs “precautionary principle” is enshrined in international agreements.

Washington has also asked the EU to define what the principle means, and how it plans to use it in international relations, reports the Financial Times.

The “safety first” precautionary principle is used to justify bans some genetically modified foods.

The USA approach appears in a response to a 28-page communication in February by the European Commission.

The FT also considers Britains Food Standards Agency which opens for business on Monday (3 April).

It says the diplomacy skills of its head, Sir John Krebs, will be put to the test as he asserts the independence of the FSA.

• Brussels spells out import ban rules, FWi, 02 February, 2000
• Disappointment as Krebs named Food Czar, FWi, 12 January, 2000
• Financial Times 31/03/2000 page 10 and 14