UK clears the way for gene-edited crops

 After leaving the EU, the UK no longer needs to follow the strict EU regulations of gene editing technologies. In the EU, gene editing faces the same regulatory hurdles as genetic modification, where DNA from another species is introduced in order to achieve the required results. In gene editing, new varieties are indistinguishable from those produced by conventional breeding techniques. Citing the advantages of gene editing tools, the government announced it plans to “cut red tape and make research and development in this field easier”. However, GMO regulations would continue to apply where gene editing introduces DNA from other species into an organism.

“Gene editing has the ability to harness the genetic resources that nature has provided. It is a tool that could help us in order to tackle some of the biggest challenges that we face – around food security, climate change and biodiversity loss,” said Environment Secretary George Eustice.

Professor Robin May, the Food Standards Agency’s Chief Scientific Adviser, added: “There are significant benefits to changing the way we regulate genetic technologies, to make sure the system is as up to date as possible and properly takes into account new technologies and scientific discoveries.”