Animal activists push for total GE ban at commission hearings

By ANNE BESTON

The benefits of tampering with animal genes to help fight human disease are over-hyped and the practice should be banned, says Save Animals from Exploitation (Safe).

The animal rights group was appearing before the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification in Auckland yesterday.

The four commissioners are hearing evidence from those opposed to genetic engineering. They will return to Wellington today.

Safe spokesman Gary Reese was questioned for more than two hours by a representative of people who suffer rare genetic disorders.

John Forman asked Mr Reese if there was any circumstances under which he would support genetic experiments on animals.

"What hope would you offer to people [affected by disease] under your proposed ban of this technology?" Mr Forman asked.

"The benefits people suggest come through animal research are often overstated," said Mr Reese. "We support a complete ban."

The group believes the use of animals in genetic experiments will escalate as technology improves and millions of animals will suffer as a result.

Earlier, Safe members gathered outside the Auckland District Court. One supporter wore a giant animal suit representing six different species.

Mr Reese said the suit was a "transgenic" animal and was not a protest but an attempt to help the commission advertise itself.

Mr Reese has criticised the commission for holding too many hearings in Wellington and for not spending enough on advertising.

The commission is to deliver its report by mid-year.

Herald Online feature: the GE debate

GE lessons from Britain

GE links

GE glossary