Scientists fear consequences of GE ban

New Zealand's incidence of liver cancer, diabetes and anaemia will rise if gene-based therapies are banned here, say medical researchers.

The potential of such technology is enormous, and it is "inconceivable" that New Zealand would shun it, the scientists told the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification yesterday.

The submission, from the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research in Wellington, warned of the health consequences if medicines created from gene manipulation were not allowed.

The royal commission will report to the Government by next June on New Zealand's GM options. It started hearing submissions in Wellington last week.

Speaking before yesterday's hearing, Malaghan Institute acting director Mike Berridge said regulations covering GE research already cost scientists millions of dollars each year.

Gene research into cancer, asthma and multiple sclerosis in Wellington was low-risk, but scientists faced a barrage of paperwork under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act, he said.

Continued restrictions on GE research would isolate New Zealand scientists from developments occurring overseas and it could spell a "death sentence" for scientists wanting work here.

GE technology has been used since 1982 to produce insulin for diabetics. Other GE medicines in use include hepatitis B vaccine, human growth hormone and cancer drugs.

Genetic Engineering-Free New Zealand spokeswoman Susie Lees said her organisation opposed using genetically engineered animals in medical research. Animals with implanted genes could interbreed with other animals and affect the environment.

AgResearch's controversial human-gene-in-cows experiment to produce a cure for multiple sclerosis was an example of wrong use of the technology, she said.

Green Party health spokeswoman Sue Kedgley said the party opposed GE technology in food production, but supported its use in medicine.

Unlike GE foods, GE medicines faced stringent clinical testing, had specific benefits and people could choose whether to use them.

- NZPA

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