Scots farmers hoping to get access to genetically-modified (GM) crop technology have been left out in the cold.
This follows farm minister Richard Lochhead’s announcement that he plans to ban the cultivation of GM crops in Scotland.
Earlier this year the European Union approved new rules to give individual countries the power to decide whether or not they wanted to grow GM crops.
The Scottish Government is now preparing a submission to the EU to request that Scotland be excluded from any European consents for the cultivation of GM crops, including those that have already been approved or are awaiting authorisation.
“Scotland is known around the world for our beautiful natural environment – and banning growing genetically-modified crops will protect and further enhance our clean, green status,” said Mr Lochhead.
“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 £14billion food and drink sector.”
He said government had long-standing concerns about GM crops and that these 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. I recently kicked off a national discussion on the future of Scottish agriculture, and welcome views from all sides of the GM debate,” added Mr Lochhead.