Dutch_activists_destroy_1,000_GM_seed_potatoes

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> GMW:_Dutch_activists_destroy_1,000_GM_seed_potatoes

> " GM_WATCH " <info

> Tue, 20 Jul 2004 20:29:37 +0100

 

>

> GM WATCH daily

> http://www.gmwatch.org

> -------

> Dutch activists destroy biotech potato crop

> Associated Press

>

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/1090349650247_85758850?hub=S\

ciTech

>

> AMSTERDAM, Netherlands — Activists in the

> Netherlands have destroyed a field of genetically

> modified potato plants in an attempt to discourage

> farming of GM crops, a Dutch company said Tuesday.

>

> Avebe LLC spokesman Gunther Abet said he couldn't

> estimate the cost of the damage to the plants, which

> were part of a government-licensed test.

>

> The plants were poisoned in a field near the city of

> Groningen, 180 kilometers (112 miles) northeast of

> Amsterdam. An unknown group identifying itself as

> " Future World " claimed responsibility.

>

> " At the last full moon we sabotaged a thousand

> genetically manipulated seed potatoes, " the group

> said in a message published by local media.

>

> " They're dead and no longer form a danger for humans

> and the environment. We hope that this makes clear

> Avebe's attempts to play God are pointless. Stop the

> gen-tech madness! "

>

> Avebe said the plants were harmless. Abet, the

> spokesman, said the potatoes were being developed

> for their starch, which is used in paper and textile

> products.

>

> The company has stepped up efforts to protect its

> seven remaining fields, Abet said.

>

> Police in Groningen could not immediately comment on

> whether there were any suspects in the case.

>

>