testbiotech

Bilder

Regulatory decisions on releasing genetically modified (GM) insects biased by corporate interests

Thursday, 8 November 2012

London/ Munich

A briefing published today by public interest groups highlights how regulatory decisions on GM insects in Europe and around the world are being biased by corporate interests (1).

Super viruses – Not an issue for the German government; German Chancellery blocks public debate but German Parliament is starting discussions

Munich/Berlin 7. November, 2012. A request by the NGOs Testbiotech and Gene-ethical Network (GeN) to initiate public discussion on research with high risk-related flu viruses has been rejected by the German Chancellery. Both organisations wanted Angela Merkel to speak out against the creation of new variations of the bird flu virus (H5N1) and endorse limited access to genetic data. Although the petition contained 250 signatures, the Chancellery refused acceptance and any direct dialogue on this matter.

The double standards of EFSA

Bias in assessing scientific evidence for risks of genetically engineered plants

Tuesday, 30 October 2012

Munich

In a new backgrounder, Testbiotech shows that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) uses double standards in assessing scientific publications. According to an analysis presented today, the authority applies differing standards to assess risks of genetically engineered plants and EFSA´s findings appear to be influenced by assumptions.

European Patent Office issues patents on chimpanzees

Initiative urges more respect for animals

Monday, 22 October 2012

Munich/ Berlin

In 2012 the European Patent Office (EPO) has granted three patents on genetically engineered chimpanzees as recent research carried out by No Patents On Life shows. The animals are intended for use in pharmaceutical research. A joint initiative of several organisations is preparing legal oppositions against these patents and urging their legal prohibition. They are warning that such patents can create commercial incentives to run more animal experiments with chimpanzees and calling for animals to be treated with more respect.