Commenting on the Scottish Government’s decision to reject co-operative work with the UK Government on gene-editing in agriculture, a position opposed by NFU Scotland, Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston said:
“At a time where the need for food security and supporting our food producers has never been more important, the SNP/Green coalition at Holyrood has chosen to reject scientific consensus and co-operation over the rules on gene-edited crops.
“The UK is home to some of the world’s foremost gene technology research. With the Genetic Technology Bill coming before Parliament, this is the time to ensure that our agricultural sector can utilise these advantages.
“Use of gene-editing not only will support higher yields, but reduce the impact of crop diseases and pests - while lessening the need for pesticides and fertilisers.
“There can be little doubt that, if the Scottish Government don’t see sense, this will have a negative impact on our environment, as well as disadvantaging food producers and consumers across Scotland.
"Sadly its decisions appear to be based not on any evidence, but on this nationalist administration’s determination to pick fights with the rest of the UK.”