Published: 06 December 2006
Defra approves Half–Baked GM Potato research trials
Defra has approved an application by the company BASF to undertake trials of a GM disease-resistant potato despite widespread disquiet regarding the introduction of GM crops into the UK.
The trials will take place on two sites in England, starting in 2007.
The GM potato developed by BASF is reputedly resistant to late potato blight, which can be a significant disease problem for UK potato growers, who normally combat it by applying chemical fungicides.
The purpose of the research trials is to test the effectiveness of the potato's resistance against UK strains of the disease.
With similar trials are already underway in three other European countries, the independent expert group the Advisory Committee of Releases to the Environment (ACRE) said that it was satisfied that the trials will not result in any adverse effect on human health or the environment.
ACRE has, however, advised precautionary conditions to the trial, in an effort to ensure that GM material does not persist at the trial sites and is not spread.
In addition, the harvested GM potatoes will not be used for food or animal feed.
Environment Minister Ian Pearson said:
“Our top priority on this issue remains protecting consumers and the environment, and a rigorous independent assessment has concluded that these trials do not give rise to any safety concerns'.
Based on the independent advice we have received, appropriate conditions have been specified for the conduct of the trials, and our GM Inspectorate will ensure that these are met.”
Further Information:
BASF application and the statutory consent
ACRE advice regarding BASF application
ACRE general advice website
GM Inspectorate
Plant biotechnology at BASF Plant Science GmbH
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