GM debate needs modification - RASE

The Government has just launched (3rd June) its great debate to decide if GM crops should be grown in the UK. The Royal Agricultural Society of England fears that instead of bringing about a consensus the whole process risks making the issue even more polarised.

"The way the debate is being run it will just make people more entrenched in their views," says Angela Lea the RASE's head of policy who attended the first meeting held in Birmingham.

With around 100 people grouped around tables, participants were left to argue amongst themselves about the pros and cons of the technology. A show of hands at the beginning of the meeting showed that around 80% thought they had a good knowledge of the facts of GM, but from the discussions it was clear that they had little knowledge of scientific fact. Another show of hands indicated that at least 70% of those there had already established their view on whether or not GM crops should be grown in this country.

"The format urgently needs to be changed," says Angela Lea. "Experts on both sides of the debate need to be on hand to inform views and to answer questions. The debate also needs to be put into a real world context. The UK has to abide by the rules of the European Union and the World Trade Organisation amongst others. There is also the small factor of economic reality. Most of the people at yesterday's meeting had already formed their views on gut instinct and perception. The RASE urges the 'GM Nation?' organisers to make swift changes to the consultation programme so that views can be formed on the basis of informed scientific and economic fact."