I understand people's anxiety and in some cases anger about GM crops. We have to show that we are proceding extremely cautiously, and tests have to be carried out in accordance with strictly enforced guidelines. But I do not condone action which is illegal. If crops are destroyed, and if companies withdraw from the tests, that will set back the whole testing programme. But other direct action groups claim that it is the perception of a vast gap between public opinion and the government's position that has given birth to the new breed of activist.
People can see that the companies and the government are in each other's pockets.
It's all very British in fact.