Accusations Surrounding the Director of Scotland's Food Standards Agency
The credibility and independence of Scotland's food safety watchdog have been thrown into doubt in the wake of accusations that its top official is in favor of genetically modified food and has close ties to big business.
Allegations against Dr. George Paterson
Dr. George Paterson, director of the government's Food Standards Agency (FSA) in Scotland, is facing a storm of allegations about his behavior during his previous role as head of food safety in Canada. Paterson's tenure was marred by controversy and internal disputes over a series of food safety issues.
An Unpublished Report Reveals Paterson's Role
An unpublished expert report written by John Verrall, a pharmaceutical chemist and researcher with the Food Ethics Council, details the arguments and exposes Paterson's involvement. The report alleges that Paterson rejected expert advice from his own scientists about the safety of certain hormone growth promoters, alleging that they had been pressured to approve drugs of questionable safety. Verrall also claimed an "unhealthy collaboration" between Paterson's team and Monsanto over the company's attempts to gain approval for genetically modified products.
Concerns about Health Canada's Stance on GM Food
Verrall's report further alleges that Health Canada, under Paterson's leadership, favored genetically modified food despite concerns over its safety and necessity. A leaked memo attributed to Paterson described a private deal resulting in fast-track approval for two new types of GM potatoes made by Monsanto.
Calls for an Investigation and Questions about Paterson's Appointment
Green MSP Robin Harper has called for an investigation by the Scottish Executive into these allegations. Harper believes that having someone with a known enthusiasm for GM technology in a senior position within the FSA is unacceptable. Dr. Jon Bell, acting chief executive of the Food Standards Agency in the UK, defends Paterson and emphasizes the rigorous selection process that took place for his appointment.
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Maintaining High Standards
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Prioritizing Customer Safety
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