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Gene editing
What’s the issue?
Parliament passed the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act in 2023, allowing the use of genetic technology in commercial agriculture for the first time. It specifically permits the gene editing of plants and animals, and defines gene editing as a genetic alteration that does not introduce DNA from another organism.
Gene editing has the potential to bring great benefits to animal health and welfare and One Health, for example though disease resistance, or elimination of congenital conditions. It also has the potential to be misused, as with any other type of selective breeding, to focus on one trait, be it productivity or conformation, at the expense of the overall health of the animal.
Furthermore, the speed of the change, within one generation, greatly increases the risk of unforeseen consequences.
What’s our view?
This is a brand-new technology with a potentially huge impact, both positive and negative, on animal health and welfare. The regulatory framework is being designed from scratch, and BVA wants to work with Government and Parliament to ensure that the regulation centres animal health and welfare and defines a clear role for vets.
BVA’s position is that any licensed genetic edit must have a demonstrable positive health or welfare benefit for the animal, or a neutral impact on the animal itself and a positive One Health benefit. The technology should not be used for aesthetic reasons.
The regulatory framework must be robust, covering both animals bred in this country and imported from overseas. Traceability of gene edited animals must be clear, enabling reporting of side effects and health concerns, through multiple generations where applicable.
Veterinary expertise will be essential in the design of the licensing and approval processes.