GM crops to be banned in Scotland

Growing genetically modified (GM) crops will be banned in Scotland, according to Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead.

The Scottish Government announced it would use new EU rules to opt out of European consents for GM crops in order to protect Scotland’s “clean, green status”.

Meanwhile the National Farm Union Scotland expressed disappointment at the idea of introducing a blanket ban.

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Lochhead said: ““There is no evidence of significant demand for GM products by Scottish consumers and I am concerned that allowing GM crops to be grown in Scotland would damage our clean and green brand, thereby gambling with the future of our £14 billion food and drink sector.”

He added: “The Scottish Government has long-standing concerns about GM crops - concerns that are shared by other European countries and consumers, and which should not be dismissed lightly.

“I firmly believe that GM policy in Scotland should be guided by what's best for our economy and our own agricultural sector rather than the priorities of others.”