The government is calling for a debate over whether genetically modified crops could help combat the global food crisis.
Environment minister Phil Woolas said on Thursday that the government is ready to argue for GM crops to have a greater role.
Woolas was speaking amid concern over rising food prices and shortages around the world.
According to reports, the minister held talks with the Agricultural Biotechnology Council, an umbrella group formed in 2000 to promote the role of biotechnology in agriculture.
"There is a growing question of whether GM crops can help the developing world out of the current food price crisis," he told the Independent.
"It is a question that we as a nation need to ask ourselves. The debate is already underway.
"Many people concerned about poverty in the developing world and the environment are wrestling with this issue."
Campaigners have warned over the safety of GM crops on the environment and for humans, but the government denies there is a case for a blanket ban.
