Report finds GM crops will offer 'limited' economic benefit

A report that sets out the overall costs and uses of commercial GM crops has found that there will be "limited" economic benefit for the UK.

The Strategy Unit report, published today, examines crops that are currently available and looked at possible developments over the next 10-15 years. The report concluded that any economic benefit to the UK is likely to be limited, at least in the short-term. Only a narrow range of existing GM crops are currently suited to UK conditions, and weak consumer demand is likely to limit take-up, the report found.

The findings will inform government decision-making and policy on GM crops and foods, alongside the outcomes of the public debate "GM Nation?" and the Science Review. However, the report does not contain specific recommendations which the government should adopt.

The report also found that future developments in GM crops could include direct health benefits such as delivering foods with added nutrients, or non-food GM crops used as a source of pharmaceuticals and vaccines.

Environment Minister Elliott Morley said: "The report sets out a range of potential futures for GM crops in the UK. These helpfully illustrate the trade-offs that will be involved whatever approach the UK adopts to GM crops over the next 10-15 years. But quite rightly, the report reiterates that consumers and retailers will play an important part in shaping the future role for GM crops."

The Strategy Unit provides the Prime Minister and government departments with a capacity to analyse major policy issues and to design solutions to problems.

(GMcG)