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March 23, 2000
PA News
Farmers withdraw from GM crops trial (UK)
Greenpeace UK spokesman Andy Tait was cited as saying that two farmers
have backed out of farm-based GM crop trials only six days after the Government
unveiled the scheme.
The story says that Andrew Roughton, of Friskney Tofts, Lincolnshire,
was
said to have pulled out because of opposition from local producers and
other
agricultural businesses.
Carl Clayton, a farmer in Ulleskelf, North Yorkshire, also withdrew.
Tait was further cited as saying that Mr Roughton had faced a barrage
of
local opposition, adding, "The opposition was from local farmers
and
businesses. Even agricultural machinery suppliers said they didn't want
to
supply to the farm anymore because they didn't want their machines
contaminated. Everyone was concerned about cross contamination and losing
business. Supermarkets have made it quite clear they don't want GM crops.
... Three hundred villagers called an emergency meeting in the village
hall.
They had started writing letters of objection to him, had collected a
petition and were threatening to take legal action against him. It was
a
very strong and pretty immediate backlash against his decision to set
up a
site."
Friends of the Earth spokesman Neil Vellander was cited as predicting
a
total breakdown of the trials, adding, "How many other people are
going to
pull out? These farmers threaten the environment and the livelihood of
their
neighbours. If GM pollution does occur the farmers responsible may find
themselves liable for any damage."
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