Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Farming Today

Magazines & Reviews

Factual: Science & Nature: Nature & Environment

The latest news about food, farming and the countryside

BBC Radio 4 FM

Farming Today: GM, Shellfishing losses, Ramularia

24/02/2014

GM, Shellfishing losses, Ramularia

BBC Radio 4 - Farming Today, GM, Shellfishing losses, Ramularia

News of storm losses in shellfishing, and a look at genetic modification.

Farmign news. Shellfishermen in Cornwall warn of losses to their livelihood, after storm damage to lobster and crab pots. And Charlotte Smith takes a look at the issue of GM.

Cornish shell fishermen are asking for government help, after the recent storms. They say they've lost tens of thousands of pounds' worth of lobster and crab pots and, as it's difficult to get insurance on equipment, some fear this could put them out of business.

The Danish government is about to spend a million pounds on research into ramularia, a fungal disease which affects barley, particularly in the North of England, Scotland and Scandinavia. Charlotte Smith hears from a researcher at Scotland's Rural College, which is also involved in the project.

And genetic modification - one of the most contentious topics in modern agriculture. Farming Today embarks on a week looking at how it works, how it's regulated, its benefits and its drawbacks.

Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Emma Campbell.

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Farming Today

GM, Shellfishing losses, Ramularia

Genres

Formats

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4