Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Monday, 31 March 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 April 2008. It was answered by Phil Woolas (Labour) on Monday, 21 April 2008 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 recent discussions he has had with the French government on its decision to extend its ban on Monsanto's MON810 maize.

Answer: We have not discussed this issue with the French Government. In line with European Union (EU) rules, the French decision to suspend the marketing of MON810 maize seed is now being considered by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Based on its advice, the European Commission should then make a proposal for an EU decision to either require France to rescind its action, or to approve and extend it across the EU. We will take a position on this in due course, taking account of the EFSA opinion and the view of our own independent Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment.

Secondary information