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Further work on a controversial research programme aimed at developing a genetically engineered chemical insecticide is being planned for this summer by the Natural Environment Research Council.

The work will involve researchers at the Oxford-based Institute of Virology and Environmental Microbiology spraying on to cabbages a virus containing a gene to produce scorpion toxin designed to affect only insects. Field trials of the insecticide last year led to a public row over its possible impact on the environment.