Many institutions such as the House of Commons Catering Committee and Kent and Stockport Councils are taking action where possible within their remit. However, the products creating such a stir remain on our supermarket shelves, on the menus of public catering outlets and the living DNA remains in the laboratory of our countryside. I can break silence and speak out my version of the truth, a challenge to gene technology, by simply going to a deliberate release site and removing plants which I believe to be contaminating our ecosystem. I am prepared to accept responsibility and have my action challenged. It calls for all arguments to be heard, not just well-resourced ones.
Direct action shifts some power back to ordinary people through recognising their ability to act.
It is a move towards a more genuine democracy where people actively participate in decisions which affect their lives. From this perspective, the mud of accusations of terrorism will not stick - for the aim is not just to challenge the process, it is to communicate beyond this, on a more level field, so that all society can together arrive at a better understanding of how to meet the need for healthy and plentiful food in a way which does not place profit above people and planet. Monsanto had promised to contribute their side of the debate - but have not been able to find the time. It is sincerely hoped that they will be able to in the future.