The US-based Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology announced this week that it is to host a debate on issues facing Europe and the US over genetically modified food. Entitled "Are the US and Europe Heading for a Food Fight Over Genetically Modified Food?" the policy dialogue will take place on October 24, 2001 at the National Press Club. "We hope to stimulate an informative discussion about the political, economic and cultural differences that have led the European Union and the United States to adopt such divergent approaches to the regulation of genetically modified crops and food," said Michael Rodemeyer, executive director of the Initiative. "Recent EU proposals to require labelling and traceability of genetically modified crops and food have created uncertainty for the international trading system and raised concerns in the US business community. The dialogue will also examine the cultural roots of this food debate, and additionally ask how American farmers are affected by European attitudes about genetically modified food," Rodemeyer concluded. Panelists include David Hegwood, Trade Advisor to the Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Tony Van der haegen, Minister/Counsellor for Agriculture, Fisheries and Consumer Affairs, the European Commission Delegation. The dialogue will be presented via a live Internet webcast. Members of the media can submit questions just prior to and during the event. To watch or submit questions go to www.PewAgBiotech.org or www.ConnectLive.com/PewAgBiotech
