Police Stop Destruction of Modified Maize Fields
- Share via
Police in riot gear prevented about 100 activists opposed to genetically modified crops from hacking down three fields of experimental maize in Sigalens in southwestern France.
It was the first time French police had stopped such crop sites from being ransacked since protesters began a campaign in late June to rip up bioengineered plants.
The action came after Prime Minister Lionel Jospin on Tuesday publicly criticized the destruction of genetically modified crop tests, describing the protests as illegal and urging activists to stop.
“When it’s illegal, it’s illegal. We said it nicely. They didn’t understand, so now we’re saying it less nicely,” Agriculture Minister Jean Glavany said.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
More From the Los Angeles Times
Podcasts
John Orr was a renowned fire investigator who was also a prolific arsonist, and whose thinly veiled novel helped to convict him. In this episode we hear from the fire captain who first suspected him—and from Orr himself.
Tom Girardi was a legal legend—until he was found guilty of stealing millions from his own clients. Host Madison McGhee and pop culture commentator Kiki Monique unpack how his downfall became a Real Housewives scandal, and what Erika Jayne may or may not have known. Plus, L.A. Times reporter Harriet Ryan joins to share how she helped bring Girardi’s crimes to light.
Sammy Roth visits America’s second-largest nuclear plant, Arizona’s Palo Verde Generating Station, and sits down with three experts to explore the pros and cons of atomic energy.
