Publication: The Advertiser
Date: Monday, June 03, 2002

AUSTRALIA`S gene modification watchdog is to slap tough conditions on plans by two multi-nationals to trial GM canola.

Commonwealth gene technology regulator Sue Meek said if approved they would be heavily policed to avoid contamination of surrounding countryside.

Aventis Cropscience has sought approval for 318ha of canola in 90 sites across South Australia, Victoria, NSW and Western Australia while Monsanto wants to trial 90ha of its GM canola over the same states.

The Aventis canola has been modified to improve the overall gene structure of the plant and to be resistant to a type of herbicide, while the Monsanto canola has been altered so it can be sprayed with the chemical glyphosate.

Under proposals put forward by Dr Meek, 20 per cent of each trial would be checked to ensure it had not contaminated surrounding properties.

The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator will take public comments on the Aventis and Monsanto proposals for the next six weeks.