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Vic Govt extends GM ban and is accused of backward step
26 Mar 2004
The Victorian Government has extended its ban on commercial genetically modified crop planting until 2008, but will consider applications to run small research trials. The State Government made the decision yesterday, with Premier Steve Bracks saying he was unconvinced about the merits of GM canola and did not want to jeopardise Victoria's food exports.
The decision was heavily criticised as a backward step by the Victorian Opposition, the Victorian Nationals, the Victorian Farmers' Federation and the Federal Government. The ban contradicts recommendations by a State Government-commissioned report on GM canola crops, which was also released yesterday. That report found little or no evidence of market access or pricing problems if Victoria grew GM canola.
VFF president Paul Weller accused Mr Bracks of caving in to a scare campaign, while Monsanto and Bayer were shocked and disappointed. Monsanto is seeking an urgent meeting with Premier Bracks.
The Age, 26/3/04.
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