EU seeks to clear way for GM crops

European countries will have the freedom to ban or plant genetically modified crops under new rules adopted today to break a deadlock over the use of the controversial foods in Europe.

The European Commission proposed the rules to clear the way for the authorisation of new applications for GM crops which have been stalled amid deep divisions in Europe over the safety of such foods.

"The concrete measures adopted today will allow member states the freedom to decide on GMO cultivation," said European Health Commissioner John Dalli.

"The Commission is not in favour or against GMOs," he said.

"But in today's world, they are a reality and Europe cannot stand idle and deny itself of the political responsibility to take decisions and implement a policy of responsible innovation."

Europe has fallen behind the rest of the world amid public concerns over the potential effects of GM crops demonised as "frankenfoods" by opponents.

The proposed rules give states the right to ban GM crops, even if they get the green light from regulators.

The commission hopes that in return, governments will lift their opposition to new GM crop applications.

A maize seed developed by US biotech giant Monsanto, MON 810, is the only crop to have been cleared for commercial cultivation in Europe since 1998.

Six EU states, Austria, Hungary, France, Greece, Germany and Luxembourg, have prohibited MON 810 from their territory but it is cultivated in five other countries including Spain.

However, Monsanto's MON 810 was grown on less than 95,000 hectares of land in the EU last year, down from almost 107,000 hectares in 2008.

A genetically modified potato developed by German group BASF, the Amflora, was given the green light in March but it will only be used for industrial uses for its starch content.

Biotech firms are awaiting clearance for the cultivation of four types of genetically modified maize.

Opponents of GM food fear they would inevitably contaminate other crops and there can be no definitive evidence of their safety.

Supporters argue that such crops have higher yields, resist pests and disease better, and require less fertiliser and pesticide.