Written question asked by Alan Simpson (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 October 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 25 October 2007. It was answered by Phil Woolas (Labour) on Monday, 29 October 2007 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Genetically Modified Organisms: Crops

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what research his Department has assessed on separation distances between GM and conventional crops for (a) maize, (b) beet and (c) oilseed rape; and whether he plans to review existing separation distances in each case.

Answer: In July 2006, the Government set out their proposals on managing the coexistence of Genetically Modified (GM), conventional and organic crops in a consultation document, which is available on the DEFRA website.This explains the research used to assess the separation distances for maize and oilseed rape. It also explains that separation distance for beet is not an issue as cross-pollination does not affect harvested beet.The Government are currently considering the results of the public consultation and will make a statement on future plans.

Secondary information