Aigner: Ban on planting genetically modified maize cannot be enforced

(14 March 2009) German agriculture minister Ilse Aigner (CSU) believes that a general ban on planting genetically modified maize in Germany cannot be politically enforced at present. In an article written for "Bayernkurier" she confirmed, however, that the MON810 Bt maize authorisation is currently being reevaluated. Aigner once again spoke out for biosafety research of GM crops.

"A firm stance on the part of the CSU or myself against planting does not make it a majority on a national level. It is just not possible at the moment to reach a majority for a general ban in Germany," says Aigner in the latest issue of Bayernkurier. However, she would like to campaign for a "local" decision to be made at the state or county level in future on the planting of green gene technology crops.

Aigner pointed out that Germany has not placed a ban on the planting of genetically modified MON810 maize, like other EU countries. Her predecessor Horst Seehofer "decided to take another path" and allow planting under certain monitoring conditions. The report on that plan's adherence to environmental monitoring should be submitted "sometime this month". Should it turn out that the plan has not been complied with, Aigner sees "no alternative to a ban".

Aigner spoke out for the continuance of biosafety research on GM crops. "As a country poor in mineral resources, Germany must place particular emphasis on science, research and technological development. Our prosperity depends on it – now and in future. Therefore, it makes sense to take an active part in shaping research that will be used worldwide. This goes for genetic engineering in general and for green gene technology in particular – also for any related safety issues."

Germany's environment minister Sigmar Gabriel (SPD) voiced a similar opinion while visiting KWS Saat, the country's leading plant-breeding company, located in Einbeck (Niedersachsen). Gabriel spoke out for genetic engineering research. Field trials with genetically modified plants, however, should not present any risk to the ecosystem. Furthermore, plants in such field trials should not be able to migrate to agricultural crops.

Further information:

• Bayern Kurier: Article by Ilse Aigner  (German language)
• Sigmar Gabriel, KWS Saat (Press release in german language, 12.03.09)