London Times | January 17, 2000 | BY NICK NUTFALL, ENVIRONMENT CORRESPONDENT
PEST-RESISTANT - oilseed rape has been bred by British scientists, casting doubt on the need for genetic engineering to generate future super-crops.
The new crop, developed by conventional breeding, produces large amounts of a chemical called mustard oil that "acts like a beacon" to lure aphid-killing wasps into a field. It may also repel pigeons; millions flock here from Scandinavia in the winter.
The researchers believe the technique could be used against a wide range of pests to reduce damage and boost crop yields. It should also dramatically reduce the need for farmers to spray environmentally questionable pesticides.
CPB Twyford, one of Britain's leading seed companies, is to commercialise the breakthrough and hopes to have the new pest-resistant oilseed rape strains on the market in about six years' time.
The Cambridgeshire-based company pulled out of testing genetically modifed rape last year after attacks by activists and mounting public concern over genetic engineering.
The development has been welcomed by environmental groups. Adrian Bebb, of Friends of the Earth, said yesterday. "This shows we do not need genetic engineering."
