The seeds of doubt

The potential large-scale introduction of genetically modified crops has been beset by controversy, mainly focusing on the possible negative effect on the environment, but as Matt Warner explains, the main issue is who is going to insure the crops and how expensive will it be?

Few aspects of farming have caused as much controversy as genetically modified (GM) crops. Media interest has been high and led to headlines proclaiming the production of 'Frankenstein foods.' Large businesses such as Monsanto argue with environmentalists while the Government looks on, but it is the insurance industry that will eventually decide whether GM crops are ever grown on a large scale. Until questions of liability are addressed, the GM scientists and the Greens may as well save their