The German company Bayer CropScience has scrapped plans to cultivate its genetically modified (GM) forage maize variety Chardon LL in the UK, citing government constraints for making it 'economically non viable'. The company was the only one authorised to grow GM maize in the UK, and the government believes that Bayer's decision not to press ahead with commercialisation means that it is unlikely that GM crops will be grown in the UK for the 'foreseeable future'. In a statement issued by Bayer CropScience on 31 March, the company welcomes the UK government's policy announcement on GM food and crops, published at the beginning of March.