Plaid MEP Jill Evans challenges European Commission authorisation of GM Amflora spud (From Western Telegraph)

Plaid MEP Jill Evans challenges European Commission authorisation of GM Amflora spud

12:30pm Wednesday 10th March 2010 in

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A Plaid MEP, representing Pembrokeshire in the European parliament, has participated in a potato protest today (Wednesday).

Jill Evans joined colleagues in challenging the European Commission's decision to authorise the growing of a new strain of genetically modified potatoes.

Last week the European Commission issued the first new permission to grow a genetically-modified plant variety in 12 years.

New EU Health and Consumer Protection Commissioner John Dalli gave the go-ahead to the Amflora potato variety which is produced by German pharmaceutical company BASF.

Wales voted in 2000 to remain GM-free.

The potato protesters demonstrated in the chamber of the European Parliament in Strasbourg this morning, holding up posters with the slogan "For a GMO-Free Europe", as European Commission President José Manuel Barroso was challenged on the matter.

Speaking after the protest Ms Evans said: "This is completely against public opinion in Wales and across Europe. We want Wales to remain GM free and for our National Assembly to be able to decide on this.

"Opinion polls show that over 70% of people are against GM food, so this decision by the European Commission has nothing to do with the interests of consumers.

"There are serious health and environmental concerns about this particular strain of potato.

"This is an untried and untested product and the European Commission has acted far too rashly. I have written to the Commissioner and strongly urged him to reconsider.

"We will continue to press too for our National Assembly to be given the final say on GMOs in Wales."