Indian anti-GM campaigner not coming to NZ

NZ Life Sciences Network disappointed at reports Indian anti-GM campaigner not coming to New Zealand after all

The Chairman of the New Zealand Life Sciences Network (Inc), Dr William Rolleston, tonight expressed his regret at reports that the internationally recognised Indian anti-GM campaigner, Vandana Shiva, has cancelled her visit to New Zealand to give evidence to the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification.

“Ms Shiva has made a name for herself around the world for her extreme views about genetic modification. She was supposed to come to New Zealand next week to give evidence on behalf of the Pacific Institute of Resource Management and to attend a public meeting in Wellington.

“We have been told she won’t be coming now so unless she participates in a video link-up we won’t be able to test her ideas in front of the Royal Commission.

“Ms Shiva has been outspoken in many forums but has never before been asked to submit herself to cross-examination. She may have found that prospect daunting. We can only regret that an opportunity we were looking forward to won’t occur now and an opportunity to put the views of anti-GM campaigners into context seems to have been lost,” concluded Dr Rolleston.

For further information, contact:

Dr William Rolleston Francis Wevers Chairman Executive Director

Phone 03 822 199 Phone 04 916 0100 Mobile 025 2460634 Mobile 021 916010

Date: Sunday, 28 January 2001

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