SOUTH Australian farmers have been missing out on the opportunity to use new technology and make the state a leader in agriculture as a result of a ban on growing genetically modified crops, Liberal MP Nick McBride says.
The Member for MacKillop backed the State Government’s decision to lift the statewide moratorium on the cultivation of GM crops, citing the independent review which found no market benefit as a result of the ban, with the exception of Kangaroo Island grain producers.
“There is evidence from the independent review the moratorium has meant the farming industry and research sector has forgone many millions of dollars of both production and research opportunities, which has unfairly impacted on our ability to grow our agricultural sector,” he said.
“It is time our farmers are given a choice on the crops they grow.”
A statutory six-week consultation period has started and Mr McBride encouraged farmers to provide feedback ahead of the government introducing new regulations.
BAN LIFT WELCOME: Member for MacKillop Nick McBride (left) says the ban on genetically modified (GM) crops has resulted economic stagnation for the farming industry.
