GM and Non-GM Crops: Distinction

HL Deb 13 March 2000 vol 610 cc193-4WA

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What training inspectors can receive to allow them to distinguish genetically modified from non-genetically modified crops; and whether suspected genetically modified crops exceeding the 20-field limit would be destroyed. [HL1246]

Lord Whitty

The current range of herbicide tolerant GM crops are only distinguishable from non-GM crops by their reaction to a particular herbicide or by analysis of their genetic content. At present this involves taking samples back to the laboratory. However, analytical methods for use in the field are being developed. Inspectors receive appropriate training.

GM crops may only be grown if an appropriate consent has been given in accordance with European Directive 90/220. Where applicable, enforcement action could be taken against a farmer growing a crop without a valid consent.