Wellington - 8 March 2001: More than 10,000 New Zealanders have written to the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification expressing their views on genetic modification.

The Commissioners would like to thank all those who have participated in the consultation process by writing, faxing or emailing their contributions to the Commission by 1 December 2000. Because of the number of submissions received, the Commission will not be writing individual letters of acknowledgment to submitters, as originally planned.

"While we are unable to communicate individually with all those who have sent us written submissions, we would like to acknowledge the time and effort that has been put into informing us of their views on genetic modification," says Commission chairman, Sir Thomas Eichelbaum.

"These submissions are being analysed and included in the material we are considering, along with the information gleaned from public meetings, hui, and formal hearings. We would like to thank all submission writers for their contribution to this debate."

Copies of the general public submissions received by the Commission will be placed on the Commission's website: www.gmcommission.govt.nz. A first instalment of 3000 submissions will be available today, followed by weekly instalments of approximately 1500 submissions during the next six weeks.

For legal reasons, or because they are partly illegible, some submissions cannot be published on the website.

ENDS

The Royal Commission on Genetic Modification was established by Order in Council on 8 May 2000 and is chaired by Sir Thomas Eichelbaum. The other members of the Commission are Dr Jacqueline Allan, Dr Jean Fleming and the Rt Rev Richard Randerson. The Commission is required to report by 1 June 2001.

Please note: For further information, please contact: Sarah Adamson, Media Relations Officer, phone: 04 495 9151 or 021 499 510.

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