The Scottish Sunday - Scotland's award-winning independent newspaper

With Crunch GM Test Results Set to Be Unveiled, Scotland's Genetic Food Industry Hangs in the Balance

Cycling Protesters and the Battle Against Genetically Modified Food

All being well, Jonny Barton will tomorrow complete a long journey. The 31-year-old organic farmworker from Nairnshire is due to arrive in London, after an exhausting, 700-mile, 12-day cycle towing a coffin.

He is one of 20 determined individuals who have travelled by bike, foot or tractor to the UK capital from different parts of Britain to protest against genetically modified food. Dubbed the “GM pilgrims”, they will finish their journey by parading through Westminster and delivering an anti-GM message to Downing Street.

Barton believes it could be dangerous to eat GM food. And he thinks the commercial growing of GM crops in Britain would poison the environment and damage wildlife. It would mean, he says, “the death of organic farming, and the death of the democratic right to choose safe food.”

The Devastating Verdict for GM Oilseed Rape Trials in Scotland

In at least one respect, Barton could be proved right this week. On Thursday, the Royal Society in London is set to publish the long-awaited results of the GM crop trials that for the last three years have provoked one of Britain’s biggest and bitterest environmental battles.

If the runes of the intensely secret process have been rightly read, it is going to conclude that the GM oilseed rape sown in Scotland has resulted in a significant loss of wildlife. The rape, along with the weedkiller it has been genetically modified to resist, has done more damage to plants and insects than farming conventional, non-GM rape.

If confirmed on Thursday, this would be a devastating verdict for the German chemicals giant behind the Scottish trials, Bayer. It would make it very hard for the government ever again to allow GM rape to be grown in Scotland. And it could immeasurably strengthen Europe’s hand in its GM trade war with the US. It would also amount to a vindication for those like Barton who have campaigned against the crop trials.

The Impact of GM Crop Trials

Scots Trials vs. English Trials

Plots of GM oilseed rape have been grown at various locations in Scotland since 2000, as well as in England. The trials aimed to investigate the impact on plant and animal life of spraying the herbicide, glufosinate ammonium, which the rape had been engineered to withstand.

The Royal Society has accepted eight papers for publication, detailing the results of all three spring-sown GM crops. The papers will be available online on Thursday.

Leaked information suggests that the GM oilseed rape regime tested in Scotland will be found to cause the most damage to wildlife, particularly in regard to the loss of plants, insects, and farmland birds. The results of the trials in England are expected to be more mixed, with potential harm to wildlife from GM sugar beet but possibly a cleaner bill of environmental health for GM maize.

The Indignant Response to Leaks

The Royal Society has condemned the reporting of leaks as "speculative", but has not denied the accuracy of the leaked information. Critics believe the leaks are likely to be accurate, and highlight the significant implications for both the GM industry and the government.

The Future of GM Crops and Government Policy in the UK

Reports Highlighting the Pitfalls of GM Crops

The results of the GM crop trials will be the fourth major pronouncement on GM policy in the last four months. Previous reports have found widespread public unease about the safety of GM food, limited economic benefits, and the need for case-by-case consideration of future crop introductions.

The GM Industry's Stance

Despite these reports and the anticipated outcome of the crop trials, the GM industry remains steadfast in its belief that GM crops are safe, economic, and beneficial. The Agricultural Biotechnology Council argues for the reintroduction of GM food to supermarket shelves, giving consumers the choice to decide.

The Scottish Perspective and Political Pressure

The Impact on Encouraging a GM-Free Scotland

If the results of the farm-scale trials are as predicted, it would be "completely foolish" for the government to proceed with the commercialization of GM crops, according to Dr Sue Mayer of lobby group Genewatch UK. Friends of the Earth Scotland's CEO, Duncan McLaren, adds that the Scottish Executive will have no option but to oppose GM crop use in Scotland if the damage is confirmed.

The Role of the Scottish Parliament

Scottish Greens' environment spokesperson, Mark Ruskell, has introduced a bill to hold biotechnology companies liable for any damage caused by GM crops, with the aim of driving them out of Scotland. The Scottish Environment and Rural Development Minister, Ross Finnie, will face pressure to end his support for GM crops if the trials' negative impact is confirmed.

The Road Ahead: Decision-Making and Consequences

Expert Analysis and Public Consultations

The results of the trials will be considered by experts on the Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment (ACRE), who will hold public consultations before advising the government on next steps.

The Future of GM Crops in Scotland and the UK

If evidence of significant environmental harm is found, ministers may have to restrict the commercial use of particular GM crops. However, they could also allow further research and planting where the evidence is weak, resulting in a potential political compromise.

International Trade Implications

As the US seeks permission to grow GM crops in the EU, the outcomes of the trials and the government's response will have an impact on the ongoing GM trade war between Europe and the US.

The Final Say

While the future of GM crops in Scotland and the UK hangs in the balance, the decision-makers will undoubtedly face pressure from protesters like Jonny Barton, who believes that the commercialization of GM crops is driven purely by greed.

The Scottish Sunday - Exploring Scotland's Hospitality Industry

Hotels and Accommodation in Scotland: A Guide for Visitors

Scotland is home to a wide range of hotels and accommodation options, catering to the diverse needs of visitors from around the world. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations in the heart of Edinburgh or a cozy bed and breakfast in the scenic Highlands, Scotland has something for everyone.

From historic castles-turned-hotels to modern boutique establishments, Scotland offers a unique hospitality experience that combines rich heritage with contemporary comfort. Many hotels boast stunning views of the country's breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, lochs, and coastal regions.

For those seeking a city break, Edinburgh and Glasgow are popular destinations with a wide range of hotels to choose from. These vibrant cities offer a vibrant cultural scene, historical landmarks, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.

If you're looking for a more tranquil setting, the Scottish Highlands and Islands provide a peaceful escape with picturesque scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Whether you prefer a luxury lodge or a charming bed and breakfast, you'll find accommodations that cater to your needs.

When planning your trip to Scotland, it's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Many hotels offer online booking services, allowing you to easily secure your preferred dates and room type.