The British Beekeepers' Association, at its October 9th Forum meeting of members deplored the situation that has arisen regarding the widespread introduction of GM trial sites without due consideration being given to the ethical and environmental impact that could arise through these trials.
The British Beekeepers' Association, at its October 9th Forum meeting of members deplored the situation that has arisen regarding the widespread introduction of GM trial sites without due consideration being given to the ethical and environmental impact that could arise through these trials.
The scattered deployment of GM trial sites throughout the United Kingdom will make it extremely difficult for beekeepers to produce honey related products without some contamination from GM pollen, especially as we are aware that bees pollinate oilseed rape and collect pollen from maize and other crops on which GM research is being undertaken or considered.
The only short term advice that can be given is for beekeepers to move their colonies away from trial sites. A probable safe distance is in excess of six miles.
The BBKA will publish to its members the known location of GM trial sites to enable members affected to take this course of action.
At the forum meeting the BBKA executive were requested to seek government assurances and guarantees that every GM site listed on the DETR Internet web site is correct, and that future trial sites will be listed as they are approved.
Legal guidelines are being sought to establish whether compensation can be awarded to beekeepers whose honey products are affected by GM trial sites.
The BBKA executive may issue further press statements if thought necessary.