08/March/21

 

Biden’s election has boosted hopes that scientific integrity will be restored in the federal government. To make good on that promise, the administration will need to take action to safeguard against the risks of an entirely new type of pesticide, one developed by genetic engineers rather than chemists. These pesticides will broadcast “gene silencing” agents across our farm fields — resulting in an open-air genetic engineering experiment. Among the concerns that scientists have raised are threats to bees and other beneficial insects essential to food production. Others have called out potential impacts on human health, including for some of our most essential frontline workers — farmworkers — and rural communities. FoodTank

 

 

Austria has introduced a ban on all private use of glyphosate herbicides. But environmental group Global2000 says a total ban, like Luxembourg's, is needed. "A glyphosate ban only for private individuals is like bringing in a speed limit only for pedestrians," says Helmut Burtscher-Schaden. Some 93% of Austrians want a total glyphosate ban. And a broad alliance of 24 Austrian organisations (from the fields of farming, beekeeping, nature protection, health, and animal welfare) are demanding "No tax money for glyphosate!" — meaning "no public subsidies for farmers who use glyphosate". @GMWatch on Twitter

 

 

The Government wants to deregulate experimental new forms of genetic engineering, ignoring wishes of consumers, needs of farmers and the government's own stated environmental ambitions. Please ask your MP to sign Caroline Lucas MP's Early Day Motion to say no to GMO deregulation! Contact your MP here. Caroline Lucas MP/UK Parliament

 

 

With gene editing in the spotlight for farming and NFU tweets coming out in favour (despite the plethora of unknowns and tremendous risks), farmer George Young has made a video explaining why it is dangerous and unnecessary. He quotes Dr Michael Antoniou on the health risks of gene-edited foods. @farmingGeorge on Twitter

 

 

If GM food is allowed in England does Scotland have any choice but to follow? This question is asked by Stuart Campbell of Moffat in a letter to the editor of the Herald (Scotland). He continues, "I understand Scotland can say No but I also know that under the Internal Market Act passed last December, the UK Parliament can vote to override any measures taken by Holyrood so I have probably answered my own question." The Herald