Written question asked by Countess of Mar (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Davies of Oldham (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 March 2010.

Agriculture: Genetically Modified Crops

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they have taken to ensure that all of the science contained in approval dossiers for genetically modified crops and food can be replicated and improved by independent scientists; and what steps they have taken to ensure that independent scientists who have discovered harmful effects in animals that have consumed genetically modified materials are not intimidated.

Answer: There is strong public interest in the publication of high-quality research into genetically modified (GM) crops and food. The availability of authentic test materials and corresponding control materials are among the prerequisites for such research to take place. Companies may choose to impose conditions on the use of their GM seeds, but we believe it is in their interests to allow the scientific community to conduct independent research into these products. The relevant EU legislation already provides for all of the information contained in applications to market GM food or feed products to be made publicly available, where it relates to the potential effects on human health, animal health and the environment. The Government support open publication of scientific data as it allows interested parties to review the findings and the conclusions that have been drawn by the researchers. Researchers claiming to demonstrate the presence or absence of risks with GM products should be equally able to publish and discuss their results without fear of intimidation.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 2305; 718 c61-2WA
Session: 2009-10
Related items: Agriculture: Genetically Modified Crops
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Crops Health hazards Genetically modified organisms Food Research Scientists
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk