GM Crops: Separation Distances

HL Deb 09 February 2000 vol 609 c98WA

Baroness Byford

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will incorporate the study undertaken by the National Pollen Research Unit for the Soil Association into their recommendations on the distances that pollen from genetically modified plants can travel. [HL605]

Baronss Hayman

Separation distances between GM and other crops have been set out by the industry group SCIMAC in the light of scientific knowledge and long-standing experience in maintaining the purity of certified seed. The report from the National Pollen Research Unit confirms existing knowledge about the distances which pollen can travel. However the findings are relevant to the dialogue between the GM and organic sectors which MAFF has promoted, and we have asked SCIMAC to take them into account in reviewing separation distances.