LEGAL CHALLENGE THREAT OVER GMO MORATORIUM

13 Oct 2013

www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-13/legal-challenge-threat-over-gmo-moratorium/5019080

Tasmanian poppy growers say they will consider a legal challenge if the State Government refuses to allow genetically modified poppies.

The Government’s moratorium on genetically modified crops expires next year.

Yesterday, more than 100 protesters marched through Hobart, demanding the Government continue its ban on GM crops.

Despite a Government review underway, the Premier Lara Giddings wants the ban to remain.

“We do not believe that we should have GM products grown here in Tasmania,” she said.

The Deputy Liberal leader Jeremy Rockliff also says his party is yet to be convinced of the need for a change.

The Poppy Growers Association’s Glynn Williams says if the ban is not revoked, poppy growers could mount a legal action.

“We’re very confident that there are good grounds to challenge a refusal of the permit to grow GM poppies in Tasmania,” she said.

Mr Williams says genetically modified poppies would not affect Tasmania’s food or honey production.