18/05/03

Dr. Sue Meek
Gene Technology Regulator
PO Box 100
Woden, ACT 2600



Dear Dr. Meek,

I am very concerned about the possibility of genetically modified (GM) crops being introduced into Australia. As has been demonstrated in both the United States and Canada it is not possible to keep GM crops separate from non-GM crops. Seed is widely dispersed by both wind and insects. We certainly don’t need the ludicrous situation in Australia where large companies sue farmers for allegedly “stealing” their seed when their GM crop contaminates the non-GM crop.

Placing the future of Australia’s food production in the hands of one or two multinationals seems inherently dangerous. While they may be able to produce GM crops with increased yield this comes at the price of decreased disease resistance resulting in an increase in pesticide usage. At a time when organic farming is growing in popularity this is a dramatically retrograde step economically. Zambia, despite suffering considerable food shortages, has rejected GM food. The trend in other countries is similarly away from GM produce due to consumer preferences. By being a GM free country we are in a strong position when it comes to international markets. We can guarantee to supply GM free produce resulting in higher prices and greater demand. Once GM is introduced this will no longer be the case resulting in lower prices and further financial hardship for Australia’s struggling farmers.

Short-term financial gain for a multinational company should not be placed ahead of Australia’s long term economic viability. Introducing a technology that has already been tried and found wanting in both North America and Europe is the worst kind of negligence and shows scant regard for the concerns of the Australian public. I urge you strongly to reject the introduction of GM crops in any shape or form.

Sincerely



Dr. Peter Holz BVSc, DVSc, MACVSc, Dipl ACZM
Veterinarian