By next February, it is expected that the ban on planting GM crops, currently in force in the
Australian state of Victoria, will be lifted. Pressure has come from farming groups fearful that Australian agriculture will be left behind as much of the world adopts the new technology.

GM supporters predict a surge in agricultural productivity when farmers are able to plant crops resistant to weeds, insects and salinity as well as needing less water.

Peter McGauran, the Federal Agriculture Minister, agreed it was time to move on. "I strongly believe in the environmental and economic benefits of GM crops," he said. "Farmers have much to gain, particularly in times of drought, from growing GM crops such as wheat and canola that use less water and herbicides than conventional crops. Our farmers will endure significantly higher costs, for no greater return - and consume more water than necessary – if they are prevented from adopting GM technology."

A source close to the Prime Minister of Victoria said the ban "will be allowed to expire next year" with Joe Helper, the Agriculture Minister, agreeing that the moratorium would expire on February 29. "In the coming months, as the end of the moratorium approaches, the government will be consulting widely with industry groups and the community," Mr Helper said. "The federal Office of Gene Technology Regulator is responsible for the regulation of human and environmental-health issues, while the states have responsibility for marketing and production issues."

One wonders why they a moratorium in the first place.

Source:

Victorian ban to be lifted on GM crops. The Age (Melbourne) (13.5.07) (http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Victorian-ban-to-be-lifted-on-GM-crops/2007/05/13/1178994967688.html)

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