No support for GM fish
Sir – I am not sure why Andrew Graham-Stewart felt the need to refer to me in his letter about GM salmon (NT, January 11).
I, in common with the international salmon farming industry, have no interest in these fish and do not support their development.
It is my understanding that GM salmon were perceived as a simpler way to obtain US approval and thus set a precedent which would enable the company to attain its goal of developing GM farm animals.
Hypothetically, if such fish were ever found in open rivers, they would be unable to interbreed with wild fish, as Mr Graham Stewart suggests, because they are sterile.
I also fail to understand why Mr Graham-Stewart says that effective dialogue between wild fish interests and the salmon farming industry is nigh impossible, since I believe talks take place regularly together with the Scottish Government.
However, if Mr Graham Stewart so wished, I would be more than happy to enter in any discussion with him.
Dr Martin Jaffa
Callander McDowell
9 Haversham Court
Middleton Road
Manchester