Nominee For Farm Trade Spot Rebuffs Green Groups' Criticism
"I am a true believer in all processes, systems, whether using conventional means or organic," Islam Siddiqui told the Senate Finance Committee at a confirmation hearing Wednesday. "I will do my best in terms of representing all these interests."
Siddiqui, who worked at the Agriculture Department under President Bill Clinton and at the California Department of Food and Agriculture for 28 years, has drawn the support of agribusiness and his nomination appeared to face little resistence at Wednesday's hearing.
But his current job at CropLife America has sparked sharp criticism from green groups. CropLife America represents agrochemical companies and makers of pesticides, including Monsanto and DuPont.
This week, 80 groups wrote to the Finance Committee protesting Siddiqui's nomination. Their complaints include Siddiqui's role in the creation of standards that would have allowed toxic sludge to be labeled as organic and CropLife America's lobbying against treaties governing the use and export of toxic chemicals. The letter even mentions comments a CropLife America regional partner made about First Lady Michelle Obama's organic garden at the White House.
Groups signing the letter included the Pesticide Action Network, the National Family Farm Coalition and Friends of the Earth.
Asked by Sen. Ron Wyden, D., Ore., about the criticism, which included a New York Times editorial on Wednesday, Siddiqui defended his record.
"The best way and the shortest way I can answer, Senator, is that all these allegations I've read and the attacks which I've seen are directed with the trade association I've worked for for eight years," Siddiqui said. "There is no evidence in my public service of 32 years where I have made any disparaging remarks against organic or sustainable practice."
Senate Finance Chairman Max Baucus, D., Mont., Sen. Blanche Lincoln, D., Ark., and others on the panel praised Siddiqui, who will play a critical role in the Doha trade talks if confirmed.
"You have to work hard to break down the walls to American exports," Baucus said. "Dr. Siddiqui, your experience tells me that you have the ability to successfully navigate this path."
-By Henry J. Pulizzi, Dow Jones Newswires; 202-862-9256; henry.pulizzi@dowjones.com
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Publié le 04 novembre 2009 Copyright © 2009 Dowjones
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