Tough new GMO measures welcomed
The European Union now has the 'toughest laws on GMOs' (genetically modified organisms) according to the MEP who oversaw the passage of the draft legislation passed by the Council and Parliament on consecutive days in February. David Bowe, the UK MEP responsible for guiding the draft legislation through Parliament, claimed that the new guidelines provided Europe with the 'toughest legislation in the world' on GMOs. Environment Commissioner, Margot Wallström and Consumer protection and health Commissioner, David Byrne had also welcomed the new Directive on its adoption. Mr Byrne claimed that the legislation was 'an important point of departure for further legislation on the use of GMOs in food, feed and seed.' Ms Wallström said the adoption of the Directive was 'an important first milestone towards the restoration of public and market confidence' in the new technologies employed in GMOs. The adoption of the Directive (90/220EEC) sets out the procedures for licensing the use of GM crops and food for a 10 year period, taking in measures concerning human health, labelling and monitoring of crops. This follows a de facto EU moratorium on approving any new GM products since June 1999.