All issues are available on this site , but by joining the I-SIS information list you can have new editions, and other press releases sent straight to you. Ethical Aspects of Biotechnology and Genetically Modified Organisms. 1.1 We would have preferred a single body to deal with gene biotechnology. If each commission is intended to deal with the applications in a particular area, there is a danger that none of them will deal with the technology itself. One major concern about gene biotechnology is the creation of viruses and other vectors capable of crossing species boundaries.
Many issues cross the boundaries that have been set up between the committees.
Most obviously, the dividing line between crops and foods is at best arbitrary. Many of the questions we should ask about GM soya as a crop do not change when it is harvested and becomes a food. In deciding how to apply the precautionary principle, the two commissions will have to discuss the question of the possible benefits in the same way. Cotton is not grown for human consumption, but after harvesting the plants can be used as animal feed and so enter the human food chain. Each commission must include members who are qualified scientists and not connected directly or indirectly with industry or government research establishments involved in the development of new GMOs.