We believe that genetically modified (GM) crops should not be approved
for commercial release unless they are safe to health and the environment
" the safety of GM crops and food has not been established beyond
reasonable doubt, there is significant scientific evidence for health risks
from GM foods and the matter requires Mr Rudd?s urgent attention "

In Labor's Plan for Primary Industries1, developed for the 2007
Federal election, Kevin Rudd?s Federal Labor Party gave the following
undertaking to the Australian people in relation to genetic engineering (GE)
and genetically modified (GM) crops:

?We believe that genetically modified (GM) crops should not be
approved for commercial release unless they are safe to health and the
environment, and beneficial to the economy.?

?Labor will also ensure that the process for assessment of GM crops
includes careful consideration of health and environmental risks.?

?Safe and beneficial standards must be established beyond reasonable
doubt and standards must be met to the satisfaction of the government, the
scientific community, the consumer community and the farming community.?

The Federal Labor Party has recently publicly confirmed that it would
honour all election promises ?at all costs?.2

On Thursday 14.3.08, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd received a letter,
containing a powerful offer to assist the Rudd Government to fulfil its
election promise.

?The letter offers to facilitate a meeting with 20 distinguished
international experts, mostly scientists, who can comprehensively advise
Ministers on the risks of genetic engineering, GM crops and GM foods,? said
Mr Peter Fenwick, the letter's author.

?The letter to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and six key Ministers3
advises them that the safety of GM crops and food has not been established
beyond reasonable doubt, there is significant scientific evidence for health
risks from GM foods and the matter requires Mr Rudd?s urgent attention if he
is to fulfil his undertaking to the Australian people,? said Mr Peter
Fenwick.

?The previous Howard Government had a policy of providing a pathway to
market for GM crops and food where the legitimate concerns of scientists,
health experts, farmers and consumers were inadequately addressed,? said Mr
Fenwick.

?The Labor Government has inherited this system and must put a stop to
it immediately,? said Mr Fenwick

The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) is the peak public
health body in Australia. Their policy on GM crops forms part of the
submission.

This letter has been endorsed by almost 700 parties including
Commercial & Business Groups; Medical & Health Professionals; Scientists &
Academics; Commercial & Business Groups; Farmers & Food Groups; Community &
Civil Groups; and Individuals.


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