Call for ‘more flexibility’ on genetic modification

EU law on genetically modified organisms should provide more flexibility for member states, say two studies ordered by the European Commission. “These reports confirm that the problems of implementation of the GMO legislation do not stem from its design or its objectives, which remain relevant, but rather from the way these sensitive issues are handled at a political level,” health commissioner John Dalli commented in a statement. One study says that EU law on GM cultivation fails to meet its own objectives and Europe’s needs. “Dissatisfaction and frustration are widespread,” its authors say.