Media statement

Friday, 16 September 2005

United Future’s commonsense approach to GE issue

United Future leader Peter Dunne today contrasted the Green Party’s abandonment of its principles over genetic engineering with United Future’s commonsense approach to the issue.

"United Future is committed to keeping our well-earned 'clean and green' reputation by practical solutions to Kiwi concerns," he said.

"Frankly I'm surprised that the Greens have jettisoned their principles on G.E. just to be a compliant potential partner for Labour, while it is us that are picking up the issue and dealing with it in a practical no-nonsense way.

"Perhaps the Green fundamentalists have reflected on their apology to the Royal Commission on 6 March 2001 for their inaccurate, careless and exaggerated scare-mongering claims.

"We need to safeguard our growing organic produce sector by ensuring that rural producers are protected from inadvertent herbicide, chemical or G.E. contamination.

“We will also look to advocating for mandatory labelling on all G.E. products so consumers could vote with their wallets.

"Genetic engineering issues should not be taken lightly. We must continually monitor and test any new changes to protect our biodiversity as well as our rural industries. United Future will not allow any introduction of G.E. until proven safe.

"We must do what we can to minimise any danger to our human and animal populations as well as maintain vigilance over any encroachment to the safety and security of our environment."

ENDS

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