Scotland Bans GM Crops

Scotland is the latest country to ban growing GM crops within its borders. In a move designed to protect Scotland’s clean, green pastures, the government announced two days ago that it was banning new cultivation of genetically modified foodstuffs.

The Rural Cabinet Secretary, Richard Lochhead, said:

“ Scotland is known around the world for our beautiful natural environment — and banning growing genetically modified crops will protect and further enhance our clean, green status. There is no evidence of significant demand for GM products by Scottish consumers and I am concerned that allowing GM crops to be grown in Scotland would damage our clean and green brand, thereby gambling with the future of our £14 billion food and drink sector. Scottish food and drink is valued at home and abroad for its natural, high quality which often attracts a premium price, and I have heard directly from food and drink producers in other countries that are ditching GM because of a consumer backlash.”

Under EU rules, GM crops must be formally authorized before they can be cultivated in the EU geographical area. The amendment to Directive 2001/18/EC came into force earlier this year and allows Member States and Devolved Administrations to restrict or ban the cultivation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) within their territory.