Biotech Updates

Regulatory Office Seeks Comments on Risk Assessment for GM Cotton

June 8, 2007

Australia’s Office of the Gene Technology Regulator is currently assessing license application from Deltapine Australia Pty Ltd to intentionally release genetically modified (GM) cotton into the environment. The application proposes the limited and controlled release of up to four insect resistant and insect resistant/herbicide tolerant GM cotton lines over a three year period (2007-2010). The trial would involve early stage research to evaluate the agronomic performance and efficacy of the GM cotton lines; collect data for other regulatory approvals; breed, select, and test new cotton lines; and produce seed for further trials, subject to additional approvals. The Regulator welcomes comments on a risk assessment and risk management plan (RARMP) for the proposed release of GM cotton until July 13, 2007.

For more information, visit http://www.ogtr.gov.au and http://www.ogtr.gov.au/rtf/ir/dir073notifcon.rtf or contact ogtr@health.gov.au.