Long term animal feeding trials are necessary to assess cumulative allergencity and toxicity, and require much more research funding. We agree that the Agency should be accountable to Parliament via health ministers. The precautionary principle should therefore be applied from the outset, and time must be allocated for long-term assessment of scientific developments before release of GMOs into the environment. Consideration should be given to the possible interactions between different types on GMOs once they are released into the wider environment. An overarching body, in the form of the Food Standards Agency, could advise on all issues relating to genetically modified foods, once they have been considered by the appropriate existing committees.
Select committees do much to assist government by presenting recommendations and valuable reports.
In order for Government to receive the best scientific advice, it should directly fund more scientific research and encourage a culture of greater openness and accessibility. I hope these comments are of assistance.