08/06/2010 12:54 PM
High security fencing will be used to protect a field of genetically modified potatoes which are being grown at a secret location in Norfolk.
The GM experiment is being used to test the effectiveness of genes from two wild plants in combating late blight.
Professor Jonathan Jones, from the Sainsbury Laboratory at Norwich Science Park, said: "We have isolated genes from wild species that confer resistance."
He added: "UK potato growers spray crops ten to 15 times a year.
"If our research is successful, this will cut chemicals and carbon dioxide generated by the use of tractors."
However, following vandalism of crops at the site by GM protestors, the firm has spent £20,000 on the latest security measures - including the erection of high security fencing and CCTV cameras.
In the US, absorbent security fencing is being used to protect the Louisiana coastline from the oil spill caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion.
The GM experiment is being used to test the effectiveness of genes from two wild plants in combating late blight.
Professor Jonathan Jones, from the Sainsbury Laboratory at Norwich Science Park, said: "We have isolated genes from wild species that confer resistance."
He added: "UK potato growers spray crops ten to 15 times a year.
"If our research is successful, this will cut chemicals and carbon dioxide generated by the use of tractors."
However, following vandalism of crops at the site by GM protestors, the firm has spent £20,000 on the latest security measures - including the erection of high security fencing and CCTV cameras.
In the US, absorbent security fencing is being used to protect the Louisiana coastline from the oil spill caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion.
Top