Fonterra's Announcement is a Jolt for the Government
Friday, September 14 2001 Owen Jennings Press Releases -- Rural
Fonterra's announcement that it will be forced to move its research operation offshore if the moratorium on genetic
modification is extended should come as a huge jolt to the Government, ACT Agriculture Spokesman MP Owen Jennings said
today.
"The Government is dithering and letting the Greens take agriculture back to the stone-age.
"Losing such a major research resource would be a huge loss for New Zealand in terms of jobs and the 'knowledge economy'
Helen Clark claims to be seeking.
"Worst of all, New Zealand would miss the awesome potential that comes from an investment in biosecurity.
"It is time for Helen Clark to show some leadership and follow the course her Government chose in setting up the Royal
Commission. The Prime Minister must listen to the voices of good science and reason.
"ACT has had a consistent view that we should proceed carefully but rapidly with biotechnology research, to retain our
leading edge internationally," Owen Jennings said.
For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at
act@parliament.govt.nz.