The New Zealand Government could be doing more to strategically manage GM crops in the country, according to research released by New Zealand based research organisation “Sustainable Future”. This was evident from the fact that less than half of the 49 recommendations of a report by the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification have been so far fully implemented. The research which reviewed 49 Recommendations of the Commission suggests that it is time for New Zealand to revisit its strategic options on genetic modification so that the Government can make robust decisions about GM field tests and releases. Established in 2000, the royal commission thought it was unwise for New Zealand to turn its back on the potential advantages on offer from genetic modification, but it recommended that New Zealand should proceed with caution on genetic modification, minimising and managing risks.  Read more...

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French Senate approves GMO law

France’s upper house of parliament—Senate-- on April 16 passed a bill laying down conditions for the growth of GM crops after changing a key amendment aimed at limiting their cultivation. The measure passed by Senate was a response to European Union’s demands that member states formulate laws on GMO use. Read more...

German biotech company may sue EU on GM potato

While the European Union (EU) may delay decision on growing of more GM crops, German chemical company BASF has warned of legal action against the EU if approval of its GM potato is not issued soon. After an inconclusive meeting recently with EU Environment Commissioner, BASF sent an open letter -- printed across German media-- demanding approval for its GM potato without any further delay. If approval is given, it would be the EU’s first authorization of a GMO product for cultivation after 1998. In 1998 GM maize made by US biotech company Monsanto was given approval for cultivation.  Read more...

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