A PUBLIC debate on the issue of GM food and farming is to be held in Maidstone next month.

The two-hour session, part of a Government-prompted national debate, will be held in the council chamber of the Town Hall, on Monday, July 14, starting at 7.30pm.

The debate will give people the opportunity to have their say on genetically modified food and agriculture before the Government makes a decision on whether to allow commercial planting to go ahead.

People can also express their views in writing by filling in forms. The forms can be sent off and will be recognised and taken into account by the Government during its investigations.

The session has been organised by Maidstone resident Kathryn Moss, of Upper Fant Road, who says she realised that it was down to local people to organise their own debates.

She said: "I don't feel that enough time has been allowed for this part of the Government's investigations on GM, or that enough publicity has been given to it. But I think it is important to use the opportunity to have our official say.

"That way it will not be possible for policy makers to say the public don't care one way or the other."

For more information on the Maidstone meeting contact Kathryn Moss on 01622 726004 or email kathrynjmoss@hotmail.com

Alternatively, responses can be made - before the July 18 deadline - by visiting www.gmnation.org.uk or telephoning: 020 7261 8616. E-mails may also be sent to enquiries@gmnation.org.uk