MOVES are under way to try to outlaw genetically-modified foods in part of North Yorkshire.

Next week, councillors in Scarborough will decide whether to declare their borough a GM-free zone.

The motion is being proposed by Councillor Christine Davenport with the support of Councillor Eileen Bosomworth, leader of the council.

Coun Bosomworth said: "Recent research seems to have given a mixed message regarding the danger or benefits from GM crops.

"It would seem that with certain groups there can be advantages, but with others there are clearly risks which we must take into account."

Coun Davenport said she wanted the authority to send out a strong message that GM crop planting was not welcome in the area.

"Major organisations and other local authorities are all declaring themselves GM-free and I think it is time that we stood up and said GM crops and GM trials are not welcome here," she said.

"There are just too many uncertainties. We do not know the impact GM crops would have on our local wildlife for many years to come."

She added: "I believe in keeping food as natural and organic as possible and when we plant GM crops we are messing with nature and risking the consequences.

"We do not just have a responsibility for ourselves but also for future generations who will live in this borough and it is as much for them that we must send out this message."