Dear all
I got first response from Juliette which is working for the Green Group. She thinks it may become difficult for the Greens to run a resolution which defines a difference between random mutagenesis and new genome editing. Good old discussions, triggered by via Campesina, I like a lot.
I do not know where this will end and maybe I will check with Social Democrats if they would table the resolution. We will see. This something for next step to be decided.
So first we will meet on Zoom with Juliette next Wednesday together with Johanna and, if available with Anne Charlotte (as expert for Via Campesina). I will present the arguments as presented in the power point at the German ministry of justice and then we will try to have relaxed discussion. Strictly about patent law.
I think, things have changed since we discussed the issue with Via Campesina last time. Organic breeders are concerned on the barley patent. We can show that the issue of random mutations are crucial for scope of patents on new genome editing: If the scope of patent is not limited to genetic engineering, the big seed companies will be able to patent conventional bred varieties all over. And, anyway, the Greens should not ignore the findings of a large international coalition of CSOs.
For the moment I am happy the Greens want to discuss this issue and on the midterm I think this discussion is also useful when it comes to New GE and GMO regulation.
So let us try.
Cheers
Christoph