§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps he is taking to protect(a) organic farmers and (b) consumers of organic food from contamination by genetically modified organisms. [52851]
§ Mr. MeacherThere are no specific requirements under the current legislation controlling the release of genetically modified organisms to consider organic farming when field testing genetically modified crops. However, where needed, release consents have specific measures attached that are designed to limit cross-pollination of neighbouring crops whether they are organic or not.
I am aware of the concerns raised by organic farmers and their customers in connection with the planting of GM crops and my officials are exploring with MAFF, the farming community and organic standards representatives how these concerns can be addressed.