Regulation of new gene-editing techniques

1.7.2021

Question for written answer  E-003406/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
João Ferreira (The Left)

In view of pressure from the agricultural biotechnology industry to remove new genetic modification techniques and mutagenesis/genetic editing methods from the scope of EU rules and regulations on genetically modified organisms, numerous NGOs - in the fields of agriculture and the environment, among others - fear that those rules and regulations could be softened. These NGOs are calling for the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union of 25 July 2018 to be adhered to in its entirety, in line with the precautionary principle.

At the global level there is also concern regarding the regulation of organisms obtained through gene drives.

I would like the Commission to inform me of its take on these concerns and of any initiatives planned in this area. More specifically:

• 1.Does the Commission recognise the need to ensure that all new mutagenesis techniques/methods are regulated, that the associated risks are rigorously analysed and that there is rigorous labelling, in strict adherence with the precautionary principle?
• 2.Is the Commission prepared to propose the putting in place of a global moratorium on the release of organisms obtained through gene drives into the environment, on the basis of the precautionary principle at international level?
• 3.How is the Commission monitoring possible regulatory changes in the UK in this area and the corresponding impacts on trade with the EU?