GM freeze not responsible Government

A decision by the Government to bow to minority political pressure and impose a two-year compulsory freeze on GM field trials, as reported by the NZ Herald this morning, would destroy our biology based economy, the Chairman of the Life Sciences Network, Dr William Rolleston, said today.

“The downstream effects would be huge. Not only will scientists leave New Zealand, with their research and intellectual property, costing the country hundreds of millions of dollars, but potential investors in our agriculture, horticulture and forestry sectors will decide we are a country which does not want to keep up with modern science and therefore will take their investments elsewhere.

“We elect Governments to exercise responsible stewardship over the economy and New Zealand’s strategic interest.

“This Government decided to pass the task of crystallising a sensible strategic position on genetic modification to a Royal Commission of four independent and highly reputable people.

“It would be an abrogation of the Government’s stewardship responsibility to cast aside the reasoned outcome of the Royal Commission and instead adopt a position based on the unscientific prejudices of MP’s who had their chance to make a case, and failed. Where’s the justice in that!

“In addition to the severe economic damage the Government will do if it makes the reported decision is that it will also undermine any confidence the business community has in the political process which follows Royal Commissions of Inquiry, ” concluded Dr Rolleston.

ENDS

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