92002E1891

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1891/02

by Eluned Morgan (PSE) to the Commission

(1 July 2002)

Subject: Genetically modified organisms

Is the Commission likely to take up the suggestion that GM-free zones should be established within the European Union? If so, on what basis will these zones be decided?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(2 August 2002)

The system authorising the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms for research and development purposes or for their placing on the market is currently governed by Council Directive 90/220/EEC of 23 April 1990 on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms(1). Directive 2001/18/EC(2) of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 March 2001 comprehensively amends the above Directive and repeals it with effect from 17 October 2002, by which date the Member States must have transposed the new Directive into their national legislation.

Under this Directive the Commission must ensure a high level of health and consumer protection. For a GMO to be authorised under Part B (deliberate release for research and development purposes in particular) or Part C (placing on the market of products containing GMOs) a scientific assessment must be made of the risks to health and the environment inherent in the introduction of GMOs. Once GMOs are authorised for cultivation, they can be planted provided that the notification regarding their placing on the market covers their cultivation as well.

Neither Directive 90/220/EEC nor Directive 2001/18/EC provides for the creation of GMO-free zones in the Union. However, the issue of GMO crops existing alongside conventional or organic crops has been raised in the Communication on Life Sciences and Biotechnology and the resulting action plan, in which the Commission has committed itself to developing certain ideas in partnership with the Member States, farmers and the various operators involved. The aim is to ensure that conventional and organic agriculture remains viable and can co-exist with GMO crops.

(1) OJ L 117, 8.5.1990.

(2) OJ L 106, 17.4.2001.