The introduction of novel genes into plants by genetic transformation holds great promise for plant breeding. However, this text shows that it is also essential to evaluate the potential risks associated with this technology, and combines the molecular genetic view with a discussion of the risks.

These Proceedings evolved from the OECD Co-operative Research Programme workshop on "Potential ecological impact of transgenic plants expressing viral sequencies", held at the Agricultural Biotechnology Center in Godollo, Hungary on 24-26 April 1997. The OECD Co-operative Research Programme At the Directorate for Agrieulture of the Organisation for Economie Co-operation and Development (OECD) a co-operative research programme for "Biological Resource Management" has existed since 1990. It foeuses on work in four specific topie areas, one of whieh is "Ecology and utilisation of new organisms"...

Jointly published with INRA, Paris.
The application of new production methods in the food industry - genetic engineering in plants and animals - as well as recent crises over food-borne diseases have led consumers to a growing concern about science as an appropriate basis for developing sound agricultural policies. This book presents the discussion of scientists and politicians in the framework of an OECD programme conference on how to restore public trust in the application of new scientific achievements concerning food production.