This week saw the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill receive Royal Assent.
Implemented sensibly, this new legislation could provide a commercial route to market for new crops developed using innovative genetic techniques. CropLife UK welcomes this first step and looks forward to practicable secondary legislation that provides clarity of regulatory approach and thereby incentivises investment in the UK.
This means that gene edited varieties could contribute to greater yields and the provision of safe, nutritious and affordable food for consumers. In future they could be a key part of the growers’ tool kit, ensuring that our farmers can compete on the international stage and can deliver on improving food security.
CropLife UK believes the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act represents a significant step forward in the development of precision breeding as a tool for improving crop productivity, sustainability and enhancing food security.
Dave Bench, CropLife UK CEO:
“We welcome the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act as a positive step contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture. Growers should benefit from new crop traits that deliver safe, heathy, affordable food whilst helping to meet net zero and sustainability goals.”
24/03/2023
