02 March 2010 - The European Commission today issued the first new cultivation authorisation for a genetically-modified plant variety in 12 years, despite concerns that its controversial antibiotic-resistant gene could subsequently enter the food chain.

New EU Health and Consumer Protection Commissioner John Dalli has given a green light to the "Amflora" potato variety – intended principally for industrial applications – which is produced by German pharmaceutical company BASF.

Green Euro-MP Caroline Lucas commented:

“It is shocking that it has taken Health and Consumer Protection Commissioner John Dalli only a few weeks in his new position to show such flagrant support for industry interests ahead of his own portfolio.

“His decision to authorise the Amflora potato variety flies in the face of the 70% of consumers who are against GM food, as well as the anti-GM position of the European Parliament.

"There are serious concerns about an Amflora gene that is resistant to antibiotics, including one recognised by the World Health Organisation and others essential to medicine, for example, in the treatment of tuberculosis.”

Caroline Lucas continued: “Serious doubts remain about the possible consequences for human health and the environment. Since certain non-GM varieties have already proved to have the same characteristics designed in Amflora, I can only conclude that its authorisation is at best unnecessary and at worst dangerous."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For reaction from Friends of the Earth Europe, visit: http://www.foeeurope.org/press/2010/Mar02_EC_gives_green_light_to_GM_potatoes.html