2007-05-16 | permalink

GM critics ignorant, says chief scientist of Australia

AUSTRALIA’S chief scientist has criticised opponents of genetic modification, describing them as ”unprincipled minorities” that were spreading false facts and hype. Speaking at a conference in Melbourne, Jim Peacock said those circulating misinformation about GM were largely ”self-serving organic farmers and ill-informed environmental activists”. His comments were made during a session on biotechnology and food at the Future Summit, where Victoria’s chief scientist, Sir Gustav Nossal, said he believed resistance to GM was starting to wane. ”The fear I think is gradually and slowly receding,” Sir Gustav said after the session. ”But I also think this is something that doesn’t need to be rushed.”

• The Age, Australia: GM critics ignorant, says chief scientist
• The West Australian, Australia: Scientists vote for GM cotton
• The Australian, Australia: Health and nutrition key to wooing GM food sceptics
• Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Australia: Discovery could lead to designer plants