State Government continues cautious approach to GM food crops issue

4/04/03
The State Government will continue to take a cautious approach to the issue of genetically modified food crops.
This week, the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) released for public comment a risk assessment and risk management plan on an application by Bayer CropScience for the commercial release of genetically modified (GM) canola throughout Australia.
But Agriculture Minister Kim Chance said the company had indicated it did not propose to seek the introduction of the GM crop into Western Australia this year.
"We currently have a five-year moratorium on the introduction of GM food crops that will remain in place until we are certain that risks to our agricultural markets are addressed," Mr Chance said.
"Our agricultural exports make a massive contribution to the economy of this State and no government can afford to let this be put at risk.
"State Cabinet has already approved the introduction of legislation to allow the designation of genetically modified (GM) free areas for food crops.
"This legislation is designed to protect the well-earned reputation of the State's agricultural and horticultural produce and will be introduced to State Parliament shortly."
Under the Genetically Modified Crops Free Areas Bill 2003, the Agriculture Minister will be able to designate a specified area or the whole of the State as an area where particular genetically modified crops may not be cultivated.
GM crop trials will still be allowed but, where an area is designated GM-free for a specified crop, GM crops will not be cultivated commercially.

The legislation is expected to pass through Parliament in this session.
Mr Chance said other steps were also being taken as part of the Government's cautious approach to the GM food crop issue.
"Next week I will be attending a Primary Industries Ministerial Council meeting in Brisbane, at which we will receive an assessment of industry preparedness for the commercial release of GM canola and agreements reached for national monitoring by Government of any initial release.
"The State's Gene Technology Interdepartmental Committee will also undertake a technical assessment of the OGTR's risk assessment and risk management plan released this week."
Mr Chance said the Gene Technology Interdepartmental Committee report and the Government's policy position would be provided to the OGTR during the public consultation phase.
Minister's office: 9213 6700