Some politicians are struggling with the fact that there is a party actually prepared to make a stand on policy that got
them elected, that party being the Greens.
Some are trying to label the Greens as a one-issue anti-science party. This is so far from the truth it is laughable. I
suspect other politicians try to label them this because they fear it is exactly what they are not. But don't take my
word for it, find out for yourself at http://www.greens.org.nz/
The Green Party knows the benefits of genetic engineering are beyond doubt. But they also know there is a growing gap
between our technological capability and our underlying scientific understanding. Keeping it in the laboratory is about
as sensible and moderate as you get.
Parliament must wake up to the fact that 98% of those who took the time to inform themselves and followed good
democratic procedures oppose the release of genetically engineered organisms into our food and the environment; an act
which is potentially irreversible.
For those who cannot make head or toe of the arguments surrounding the release of genetically engineered organisms look
no further than the insurance industry. It has clearly signalled it will not cover the risk.
Christiaan Briggs
Expatriate in London