§ Mr. Alan SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the Food and Agriculture Organisation's recent paper, "State of the World's Fisheries and Aquaculture", concerning genetic modification of aquatic species and their potential to increase the quantity and quality of aquaculture products. [6640]
§ Mr. MeacherThe paper published by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation in 2000 recognises the potential for genetic modification to increase the quantity and quality of aquaculture products. It goes on to consider the areas of concern with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). These include possible adverse side effects on human health and the environment, trade impacts, intellectual property rights, labelling and ethics. It outlines possible solutions including the adoption of suitable legislation, codes of conduct or guidelines, and possible technical answers. The paper says that solutions will come only from addressing all sides of this complex issue. It also notes that technically there must be good scientific support with adequate testing and monitoring to reduce the uncertainties of environmental impact.
The Government note the potential of genetic modification but at this stage of development GM technology has yet to demonstrate any proven benefits in relation to aquaculture. It is feasible that the technology could be used to increase yields from fish farms or make farmed fish easier or cheaper to produce, but this is unlikely in the short term. There have been no environmental releases of GM fish in the UK and none is expected to be proposed in the foreseeable future.
However, the Government keep an open mind on this while making sure that suitable safety controls are in place to ensure protection for human health and the environment.
§ Norman BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she takes to ensure genetically modified salmon cannot escape from confinement into the wild. [18366]
§ Mr. Meacher[holding answer 27 November 2001]: There are currently no GM salmon in this country therefore the situation does not arise. The Government's policy on containment of GM fish was outlined in the answers given to the hon. Member on 19 November 2001, Official Report, columns 78–79W, and on 20 November 2001, Official Report, column 198W.