Friday 10th January 2003
Devon may become GM-free zone | |
|  | | Organic fields in South Devon |
| | An EU directive appears to pave the way for member states to introduce GM-free zones...and Devon could be the first area in England to make use of the ruling. But is it too late to hold back the GM tide? |
|  | | Devon could become a genetically modified-free zone, if councillors push ahead with plans to ban GM crops.
County councillors meet on Monday 13th January, to listen to representatives from all the interested parties, before making a final decision on the issue - probably in March.
It follows increasing public concern over GM crops, and possible effects on the environment - including contamination of neighbouring farms.
It's not yet known how a ban would work - facts on that aspect are needed from the European Union. The EU has issued a directive which appears to pave the way for member states to approve GM-free zones.
Devon County Council would need Government backing, should the authority push for GM-free status.
 | | Devon has a reputation for its green environment, and farmers may be reluctant to affect that by introducing GM produce |
The EU directive covers commercial releases of GM crops and research trials. The issue goes before Devon's scrutiny committee on 13th January.
Chair of the committee, Cllr John Glanvill (Lib-Dem, Clyst Vale) believes Devon is the first authority in England to discuss a possible GM ban.
He said: "The bottom line is: Should we be aiming for a GM-free area in Devon and Cornwall? If there's any risk to the county, then we'd have to pursue a GM-free area.
"But there are major commercial implications. Unquestionably, there are benefits to farming production. It's sensible to listen to the views of the interested parties," he added.
Ian Johnson of the National Farmers' Union in Devon, said it may be too late to stop the spread of GM produce: "It would be like King Canute holding back the tide. The Pandora's Box was opened 20 years ago," he said.
"The words horse, door and bolted spring to mind. The idea you can put a ring-fence around Devon is unachievable in its practicality. It's a nice sentiment, but technology will march forward.
"And, as with most advances, there are benefits and disbenefits. There are possible medical benefits, and there would be less use of chemicals. And it would provide a sustainable diet for parts of the world where there is a shortage of food."
He added: "At the end of the day, farmers will want what the consumer wants. And on a commercial basis, farms in Devon may not benefit as it would spoil the image we are trying to achieve of being a green and environmentally-friendly county.
"The issue really has to be choice. We import getting on for 50% of our foodstuffs, and much of it is GM. What is needed is labelling, so that consumers have a choice."
There were GM crop trials in South Devon a few years ago - but they were stopped after protests because the fields were directly opposite Riverford Organic Farm, run by Guy Watson.
A ban would certainly be backed by the area's organic producers, and environmental pressure group Friends of the Earth are lobbying for GM-free zones.
If Devon opts for GM-free status, it's likely that neighbouring counties Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset will be asked to do likewise.
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