Genetic diversity is at stake, warn anti-GM campaigners
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Germany has announced it is preparing a law to legalise the production of genetically-modified corn.
In a statement made in Berlin, Minister for Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Renate Kuenast said the German Government saw no risk from GM food.
She said she expected it to be on sale in supermarkets across Europe later this year.
Last month, the EU delayed a decision on lifting its four-year-old moratorium on importing GM crops.
The move has been challenged by the United States and the World Trade Organisation.
'Freedom of choice'
This announcement marks something of a turning point.
Germany has long been one of the most sceptical countries in Europe regarding GM food and Ms Kuenast is a member of the Green Party, which has traditionally been one of the strongest opponents of GM crops in this country.
But Ms Kuenast said a new law would be approved by the cabinet next month which laid down the conditions under which the crops could be grown in Germany.
She added that it would give freedom of choice to consumers, and safety guidelines to farmers.
The statement was immediately criticised by one of Germany's top environmental groups.
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