UK orders biofuels review by June; will move against EU targets if review calls for change

In England, prime minister Gordon Brown signaled a pullback on biofuels, saying it no longer fully supported the 10 percent European biofuel target because of the world food crisis. Food prices have recently risen an average of $1500 per household. Britain, which has seen a strong currency surge which has dampened the impact of rising prices on imported foods, is highly dependent on imports for its food supply. He announced a review that would be completed by June on the overall impact of biofuel.

A panel convened by the prime minister said that: “We will review our approach to biofuels. We need to look closely at the impact on food prices and the environment of different production methods and to ensure we are more selective in our support. If our UK review shows that we need to change our approach, we will also push for change in EU biofuels targets.”

The panel also pledged to seek G8 action on agricultural development, increased support for the World Food Program, research on increasing agricultural yields, and renewed emphasis on a WTO trade agreement that reduces agricultural subsidies and tariffs.

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