The Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Science is applauding the Government’s announcement of increased science funding as the best way to grow the economy.

Prime Minister John Key announced on Tuesday an extra $225m in funding over the next four years, to go with $96m already earmarked for research and development.

Institute president Jon Hickford says the Government is right to favour proven performers when it hands out the cash, so long as start-ups have a chance to grow as well.

Professor Hickford says it’s time for the country to stop talking about the potential for development and get on with doing it.

Meantime, the Soil & Health Association of New Zealand hopes the extra R&D money will boost conversion to organic agriculture and horticulture.

Soil & Health spokesperson Steffan Browning says scientists should move away from genetic engineering field trials for crops and animals.

He says genetically engineered  ryegrass and clovers are a misuse of science and funding.