Answers Urgently needed on GE Corn Liability

Answers Urgently needed on GE Corn Liability and seed imports.

The outcome of MAF's investigation into the latest GE contamination accident must answer the question of liability for the company owning the patent on the gene appearing in the corn. MAF and ERMA must also explain why they have continued to allow importation of seed of a type that is known to have been genetically modified and from a country with well-documented contamination problems. The Vegetable Growers' Federation chief executive Peter Silcock must also explain what measures his organisation has taken to source seed from countries with lower levels of contamination.

All fruit and vegetables grown in New Zealnd are GE-free and it is in the interest of its members that Mr Silcock keeps it that way. He must ensure alternative seed supplies are identified.

" MAF, the Industry and the Minister of Environment appear to have done nothing about looking for alternative seeds, despite previous cases of contamination," says Jon Carapiet from GE Free NZ in food and environment.

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