Deceitful Compromise Clears the Way for GMO Crops in Europe

An unholy alliance of pro- and anti-GMO countries have struck a deal that will sweep away the obstacles to genetically engineered crops in the EU, writes Lawrence Woodward.

May 31, 2014 | Source: The Ecologist | by Lawrence Woodward

For related articles and more information, please visit OCA’s Genetic Engineering page and our Millions Against Monsanto page.

An unholy alliance of pro- and anti-GMO countries have struck a deal that will sweep away the obstacles to genetically engineered crops in the EU.

By allowing – under limited circumstance – individual member states to prohibit the growing of GMO crops on their territory, the European Commission expects to boost GMO cropping in the EU overall.

An indicative vote of Member State representatives taken in a closed meeting this week indicated near unanimous support for the proposal which is being promoted by Greece – the current holders of the EU Presidency.

A formal vote will take place at a meeting of Environment Ministers on the 12th June. If agreed – as seems likely – it will then go to the European Parliament for approval.

The significance of this move is that it breaks the political stalemate that has largely prevented GMO crops from being grown in the EU.

The proposal is based on the deceit that both pro- and anti-GMO countries can have want they want, and the unity of the EU Single Market can remain intact.