The Western Australian Farmers Federation (WAFF) has again called on
the State Government to lift its moratorium on the commercial release of
genetically modified (GM) crops.
The federation says the lifting of similar moratoria in Victorian and
New South Wales has further frustrated several of its members.

The federation's director of policy, Andy McMillan, says many farmers
fear they will be put at a competitive disadvantage.

Mr McMillan says the strong feelings expressed at the federation's
policy forum show the need for GM trials in WA.

"It's largely frustration that Western Australia's been left out by a
Government moratorium that we don't believe is appropriate at this point in
time," he said.

"We're certainly going to keep a very close eye on the developments
that happen in Victoria and NSW.

"With their policy reinforced to the state that it is, we'll be taking
the battle up to the Minister to lift the moratorium, hopefully in the not
too distant future."

The federation has also used the forum to formalise its position on
climate change, saying it will lobby for agriculture to be involved in
Government policy making.

The policy recognises the reality of climate change and urges the
Federal Government to establish a climate change research and development
body.


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