Biotech Updates

Premier of Victoria Open to Biotechnology

June 1, 2007

Steve Bracks, Premier of Victoria, Australia is open-minded when it comes to biotechnology. He recently announced that an “independent panel” will decide whether the ban on genetically modified (GM) canola will be lifted or not. Although there are still oppositions to lifting the ban, Bracks believes that times have changed since the ban was implemented in 2004. On the other hand, GM critic Bob Phelps said that the panel was in favor of biotechnology but they were not experts on trade or marketing issues. He wants the ban to be extended until 2013. The Victorian government will announce its decision after the panel submits its reports in September.

The news article is available at http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/bracks-open-minded-about-genetic-engineering/2007/05/26/1179601737374.html.