In the Queen's speech new plans to unlock the powers of gene editing were unveiled in the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill, which will remove barriers previously imposed by the EU to enable development and marketing of precision bred plants and animals, helping both farmers and the environment as well as unlocking innovation in the UK. 

The Government has announced a decision to bring forward the publication of the Bill white paper.

Country Land and Business Association (CLA) President, Mark Tufnell, said:

“Bringing forward the publication of the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill announced in the Queen’s Speech should be welcomed by farmers and environmentalists alike. The fragility of global and domestic food security has been exposed by recent events and it is essential that we can have a full range of tools for the future.

“Now more than ever, we need to focus on new technology that can deliver benefits for climate and the environment alongside crop and livestock production. These measures will play a crucial part in helping to manage our food security and strengthen our domestic supply chains.

“The potential benefits are high, and the risks are no different from conventional breeding.”