Memorandum submitted by Graham Brookes
(A18)
Just a short note to inform you of my experiences.
I spoke at the GM debate organised by Cornwall County Council
on Sunday 20 July. The format of this debate differed from most
others in that four "experts" (speakers) were invited
to give presentations followed by questions. I delivered a paper
on the market and economic aspects.
The debate attracted about 150 people. Based
on the nature of interruptions and questions I estimate that 95%
plus of the audience were green/anti GM activists. Almost all
questions were from people with anti GM views and largely espoused
perceptions and subjective views that repeated views put out by
anti GM groups. Much of the views expressed lack evidence to support
"claims" and are often based on incorrect or misleading
information.
This audience was not representative of the
public in Cornwall. It was a narrow, biased element of the total
population. This did not, however surprise me given that the vast
majority of the public are largely indifferent on the subject
(ie, it is not an important issue to most people who accordingly
do not really have any strong pro/anti GM views). This can clearly
be seen from recent IGD research amongst consumers where 74% of
those interviewed were largely "not bothered" about
the GMO issue in relation to food consumed.
15 September 2003
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