Royal Society (Statement)

Genetically Modified Foods - Royal Society Calls For A Rational Debate

In response to the recent intense publicity surrounding the work conducted by the Rowett Research Institute into the safety of genetically modified potatoes, President of the Royal Society, Sir Aaron Klug OM, expressed concern that the premature release and misinterpretation of unsubstantiated research into Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) could only serve to mislead the general public in what is a complex and important area.

GMO research is a rapidly developing and controversial field in which rational debate based upon rigorously reviewed data is essential if we are to realise the full potential of this technology, continued Sir Aaron.

Although the debate surrounding GMOs has focused mainly upon the risks of this technology, we must not lose sight of its huge potential benefits in areas of food supply, food quality, nutrition and health. When one considers that the world population is expected to reach 8 billion by 2020, it is clear that new approaches will be needed in addition to the continued improvement of existing methods of crop and animal husbandry and food processing in order to feed such a burgeoning population.

However, there are important issues to be addressed regarding the safety of GMOs designed for human consumption, together with the potential impact of GMO crops on the environment. The Royal Society recognises the concerns of the general public and strongly supports mechanisms by which consumers are kept informed about developments in biotechnology.

The continuation of publicly funded research is essential if the benefits of GMOs are to command the confidence of the consumer and fulfil the basic aspiration of the universal right of access to food, concluded Sir Aaron.

In April of this year the Royal Society appointed a working group, chaired by its Biological Secretary, Professor PJ Lachmann FRS, to review the use of GM plants in food, the report of which is due to be published in early September.

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. The Royal Society is an independent academy promoting the natural and applied sciences. Founded in 1660, The Society has a dual role, as the UK academy of science, acting nationally or internationally, and as the provider of a broad range of services for the scientific community. It responds to individual demand with selection by merit, not by field. The Societys objectives are:
   • To promote and recognise excellence in science and its application.
   • To provide independent, authoritative advice, notably to UK Government, on science and engineering-related matters and to inform public debate, through studies, submissions and reports.
   • To support and encourage research and its application, through research fellowships and grants to individual scientists, and to disseminate the results of research through meetings, lectures, exhibitions and publications.

For further information, contact:

Carl Smith

Press and Public Relations Unit

The Royal Society, London

Tel: 0171 451 2516