NZ commission gives green light for GM food

By CNN's Grant Holloway

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (CNN) -- New Zealand's Royal Commission on Genetic Modification has given guarded approval to the further development of GM crops and livestock.

In a 1273-page report released Monday, the commission concludes New Zealand would be unwise to turn its back on the potential advantages of biotechnological engineering.

The report is certain to create waves of controversy in New Zealand, a nation which relies heavily on primary industries such as dairying and meat production to drive its economy.

Opposition to genetic modification of crops and livestock in New Zealand is widespread with activists recently attacking experimental crops and public feeling on both sides of the issue running high.

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The report however clears the way for field trials of GM crops to continue, recommending a new way to approve releases of modified organisms.

"We are recommending a new category, conditional release, where the use of a genetically-modified organism can be made subject to terms and reporting back, as a further assurance of safety and to enhance the management of risk," the report says.

The report finds that while most New Zealanders were comfortable with genetic modification for medical purposes, many strongly opposed any other uses.

"Our major conclusion is that New Zealand should keep its options open," the report says.

"It would be unwise to turn our back on the potential advantages on offer, but we should proceed carefully, minimizing and managing risk."

The report says its recommendations are aimed at encouraging the co-existence of all forms of agriculture.

The report recommends the establishment in New Zealand of a Bioethics Council to debate GM issues, giving particular emphasis to the ethical and cultural perspectives of New Zealand's native Maori people.

It also recommends appointing a Parliamentary Commssioner on Biotechnology to audit biotechnological applications and promote public education about new technologies.

The commission report has taken 14 months to complete after receiving more than 10,000 submissions, and cost about $3 million (NZ$ 6.2 million).

The New Zealand Government will now give itself three months to consider the commission's 49 recommendations before deciding which, if any, of them will become policy.