Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

GM BAN RULING: GOVERNMENT SHOULD WAIT UNTIL SAFETY IS PROVEN - GEORGE

September 9, 2003 12:00 AM

Commenting on the European Court of Justice ruling that allows EU Governments to temporarily ban genetically-modified foods if they suspect the foods are a threat to human health or the environment, Andrew George MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Rural Affairs Secretary, said:

"This ruling confirms that the UK Government can now press the case to protect our own environment from the potential impact of GM crops.

"If the Government really wants a decision based on sound science rather than hasty science, then it should use these powers to impose a temporary or extended ban until adequate reassurances are presented."

The European Court of Justice ruled: "that where use of the simplified procedure is not warranted, a Member State can - as a preventive measure - temporarily restrict or suspend the marketing of those foods in its territory (under the "safeguard clause" laid down in the Regulation) without first being required to challenge the lawfulness of the procedure."

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image
  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    greenlibdems.org.uk/en/article/2003/013741/gm-ban-ruling-government-should-wait-until-safety-is-proven-george
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    grn.lib.dm/a1zC

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you agree, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image