§ Sir Sydney ChapmanTo ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what advice the Commissioners have received about the growing of GM crops on their land; how they intend to monitor the result of the current round of trials; and if he will make a statement. [123048]
§ Mr. Stuart BellFollowing extensive study and wide consultation, the Church of England's Ethical Investment Advisory group has recommended to the Commissioners that new agricultural tenancies should contain a clause restricting the use of genetically modified seeds. Therefore genetically modified seed could only be grown on church land with the express consent of the Church Commissioners. The Commissioners have considered and accepted this advice. Currently no GMO crop trials are taking place on Church land.
The Advisory Group is currently establishing a process to monitor the GMO crop trials programme in collaboration with government agencies and respected plant science organisations. The Commissioners will therefore continue to receive expert advice as the GMO testing trials proceeds.
The Ethical Investment Advisory's Group guidance is published in full and is available on request and on the Church of England's website at www.cofe.anglican.org. I am also arranging for a copy to be placed in the House of Commons Library.