Today there is rising public concern about the accelerating introduction of genetically engineered foods without adequate labelling or testing and without any substantial public debate. The speakers at this forum will state their position on these vital issues in the context of the general election and on the final day of the ‘Global Action Week against Genetically Modified Foods’.

Principal speakers

Dr Ricarda Steinbrecher, genetics scientist, Biotechnology Co-ordinator for Women’s Environmental Network.

‘The dangers of producing and eating genetically engineered foods.’

Patrick Holden, Director of the Soil Association; member of the UK Register of Organic Foods Standards Board (UKROFS); member of the Agricultural Reform Group. ‘No place for genetic engineering in organic agriculture.’

(Mr Holden will address the forum via conference telephone.)

Vera Chaney, National Organiser of Green Network, council member of SAFE Alliance (Sustainable Agriculture, Food and the Environment).

‘The risk factor and consumer confidence.’

Dr Geoffrey Clements, Leader of the Natural Law Party.

‘Placing human health and safety and environmental protection before commercial interests – the need for an immediate moratorium on the introduction of genetically modified foods.’

Chloë Wilson, Executive Campaigns Co-ordinator for the Green Party.

Position statement of the Green Party on genetically engineered foods.

Joyce D’Silva, Director, Compassion in World Farming.

‘The risks of genetic engineering to animal welfare.’

Also to be presented:

Policy statement on genetically engineered foods and on BT maize, from Matthew Taylor, Liberal Democrats Environment Spokesperson.

Position statements on genetically engineered foods from The Townswomen’s Guild, Iceland Foods, the British Retail Consortium, and other organisations.

The Labour and Conservative parties have also been invited to send a speaker or make a statement.