Welsh Assembly Proposes Tighter Regulations on GM Crops

The Welsh Assembly Government has stated its intention to enforce tighter regulations on genetically modified organisms. Although the Assembly noted that it is impossible to declare Wales GM-free under EU legislations, it said that it will continue its restrictive approach. GM crops will require registration with the Welsh Assembly Government three months prior to planting.

In a press release, Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones said that "the coexistence measures will be introduced to protect farmers of conventional crops from the possible economic disadvantages of accidental contamination from GM crops." Elin added that the Assembly "will include options for imposing strict liability on GM crop growers and introducing a voluntary industry funded compensation scheme."

The press release is available at http://wales.gov.uk/news/latest/090224gmcrops/?lang=en