Chapter 1: Introduction
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Royal Commission on Genetic M odification | Report
The shape of the Report
The Commission's Warrant directs us, in brief, to explore strategic options for
New Zealand in respect of genetic modification. At one extreme New Zealand
could become free of all genetically modified material, with no genetically
modified products in use or able to be brought into the country, and no research
involving genetic modification technology, even in containment. At the other
extreme New Zealand could allow full, unrestricted use of genetic modification
in all situations. Between these extremes lie any number of intermediate
positions, each with its own combination of controls and freedoms, with the
degree of control varying with the type of use and situation.
To address this basic strategic question, the Commission has structured its
considerations in the following way:
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We start by naming seven core values we believe lie at the heart of this
debate (chapter 2).
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These values are then grouped into three spheres or sets of criteria:
cultural, ethical and spiritual; environmental and health; and economic and
strategic (figure at the end of chapter 2).
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The sets of criteria are outlined (chapters 3, 4, 5).
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The criteria are then used in assessing various potential applications of
genetic modification: research, crops, food, medicine (chapters 6, 7, 8, 9).
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There follows a discussion of other key issues: intellectual property, the
Treaty of Waitangi, liability (chapters 10, 11, 12).
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We then draw our major conclusion about New Zealand's strategic options
in respect of genetic modification (chapter 13).
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Three major recommendations are set out (chapter 14). We then list all our
recommendations (chapter 15).
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The addenda to the Report comprise an explanation of genetic modification
for non-scientists, the Commission's Warrant, the Treaty of Waitangi, the list
of reference notes for each chapter, a glossary of Maori expressions,
abbreviations and technical terms, and an index.
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The appendices contain essential supporting material. The first appendix
introduces New Zealand and the current status of genetic modification
here. It also describes the processes of the Commission, and includes
operational detail. The second appendix summarises and analyses
submissions from Interested Persons (who took part in the formal hearings),
and the final volume covers representations from the public and other
activities outside the formal hearings.