Taylor Vinters - Solicitors

Genetically-modified (GM) crop growers based in Wales are set to be subject to even tighter regulations under plans outlined by the Welsh Assembly.

Proposals include imposing strict liability on GM growers, who will also be required to submit their details to a publicly accessible GM Crop Register three months prior to planting.

Growers will also have to consult and inform neighbouring landowners when GM crops are to be planted.

All of the measures are to protect traditional farmers and conventional crops from the economic disadvantages of accidental contamination.

Rural affairs minister Elin Jones said that it had been the assembly's long-standing ambition to adopt "the most restrictive policy on GM crops" compatible with European and UK legislation.

She said: "It is not legally possible to declare Wales GM-free, but we will continue our restrictive approach.

"The intention is for co-existence to be tightly regulated in Wales. Our proposed measures will be more restrictive than those proposed in England and Northern Ireland."

It comes after the publication of a consultation earlier this year, which set out plans to allow farmers the choice between conventional, organic and GM crop production.