1.EUROPE: EU proposal calls on states to end bans on authorised GMOs
2.No UK field trials
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1.EUROPE: EU proposal calls on states to end bans on authorised GMOs
26 Apr 2005
Source: just-food.com
http://www.just-food.com/news_detail.asp?art=60560

The European Commission today adopted a proposal for the Council of Ministers asking five Member states to lift their bans on certain authorised genetically modified organisms.

The draft decisions concern the GM maize varieties T25 and MON810 banned in Austria, GM maize Bt176 banned in Austria, Germany and Luxembourg, the oilseed rape varieties MS1xRF1 banned in France and Topas 19/2 banned in France and Greece.

The Regulatory Committee which represents the member states did not reach the qualified majority necessary to support the commission proposal to ask the five Member States to lift their national measures, the commission said.

The commission's proposals are scientifically backed by the European Food Safety Authority. The council can either adopt or reject the proposals with a qualified majority. If no decision is taken after three months, the files return to the commission who can then adopt them. If adopted, the member states in question would have to repeal their national bans at the latest 20 days after they are formally notified of the respective decisions.
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2.No UK field trials
From: "Becky Price" <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>
Subject: No UK field trials.
Tue, 26 Apr 2005

Dear all,

Just to be sure, GeneWatch wrote to DEFRA, on 19th April 2005, to ask if there were any field trials of GM crops taking place. Today I received a reply, confirming no trials are taking place.

I deliberately didn't ask if trials were taking place under Part B of Directive 2001/18/EC but kept the request of a more general nature. I assume this means DEFRA is unaware of any trials taking place for any GM crop weather they have a Part C consent or not.

Best wishes to you all,
Becky Price
GeneWatch UK
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