DETR will not allow any trial of genetically modified (GM) crops to go ahead until they are satisfied that the risk to the environment is "low to effectively zero". Nevertheless, we are working closely with them to improve the management of GM trial sites.

Unfortunately, Monsanto has no direct control over the running of these trials (National List Trials). This is done by third party growers appointed by MAFF. In this case, the growers confirmed to us in writing that the trial complied with all the relevant requirements.

One of these requirements was that the site should be surrounded by a six metre pollen border. The border was in place at the beginning of the trial, but part of it was later mown in error by one of the contractors. As a result, Health and Safety Executive inspectors found the border to be only two metres at some points.

After consultation with DETR and the HSE, Monsanto destroyed all the GM oil seed rape plants at the trial. Other oil seed rape plants within 50 metres of the trial were also destroyed. Both measures were taken to minimise any potential environmental impact.

In addition, the trial site will continue to be monitored and no oil seed rape will be grown on it for at least two years.

We support rigorous enforcement of the regulations on GM field trials. We also recognise the need to prevent such incidents occurring again. This is why we are working closely with MAFF and DETR to produce a standard set of operating procedures for growing GM crops. We hope that these procedures will ensure that future breaches of consent are avoided.

Notes to the Editors

1. Monsanto has been prosecuted for breaching the 1992 Genetically Modified Organisms Regulations at a GM oil seed rape trial site in Rothwell, Lincolnshire. It is not contesting the case.

2. The trial at Rothwell was part of the National List Trials. The purpose of these trials is to assess the commercial potential of the GM crop (ie. yield, oil content etc) and not to assess its environmental safety. This has already been assessed prior to the companyÕs application for National List Trials. This environmental assessment Ð and a food safety assessment Ð are a European legislative requirement under EC Directive 90/220.

3. The Health and Safety Executive, which inspects GM trials, found that the trial in Rothwell was not being conducted in accordance with the consent granted by DETR.

4. Authorisation for the trial was given by MAFF. MAFF asked NIAB (National Institute of Agricultural Botany Ð a charitable trust) to appoint a third party grower to manage the trial. In this case, the grower appointed by NIAB was Nickersons Seeds Ltd.

5. Nickersons were responsible for the drilling, growing and harvesting of the GM oil seed rape.

6. The breach occurred because Nickersons accidentally mowed down part of the six metre pollen barrier required under the regulations.

7. When HSE informed Monsanto of the breach, immediate action was taken to destroy the trial and all other oil seed rape plants within 50 metres of it.