Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 11 May 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 May 1998. It was answered by Michael Meacher (Labour) on Thursday, 14 May 1998 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, if he will prevent planting of genetically-engineered maize at Hood Barton, near Totnes in Devon, to avoid possible contamination of the neighbouring organic farm.

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will prevent planting of genetically engineered maize at Hood Barton, near Totnes in Devon, to avoid possible contamination of the neighbouring organic farm. [42089] Mr. Meacher: Even if sown now, the genetically modified crop will not be in a condition to produce pollen until July at the earliest and there is therefore no need to prevent planting. If in the light of any new information it appears necessary to terminate the trial this can and will be done before the flowers produce pollen.

Secondary information