Apology for editorial oversight in Red VFT PVR article

Rick Walker (walker@cutter.hpl.hp.com)
Sat, 26 Oct 1996 17:32:36 -0700

Dear CP'ers,

I'm writing to apologize on behalf of the ICPS for publishing Colin
Clayton's article (Re: Royal Red VFT) on page 90 of the current CPN.

There were several statements in that article not adequately verified
before printing. In particular, a PVR granted in Australia does *not*
prohibit asexual propagation of the same clone in other countries. This
has already been demonstrated by the release of "Akai Ryu" in the U.S.

In addition, our editorial board has decided that, in the future, the
CPN should not print personal opinion in the form of attacks upon third
parties. We have instituted guidelines into our review process to help
ensure that this sort of article will not be run again.

Geoff Mansell, of Dingley Home and Garden, has contacted the ICPS with
concerns that this article will adversely and unfairly impact his CP
business at the peak of his summer market season.

It appears that Geoff has acted fully within the realm of his rights,
obtaining the PVR by meeting all legal requirements. Whether PVR is a
good policy or not is a completely separate discussion, and should not
reflect upon Mr. Mansell.

In the interests of fairness, the next CPN will contain a one-page
rebuttal from Dr. Clarke, who performed the scientific comparison
between _Dionaea muscipula 'royal red'_ and the typical form.

I would encourage all CPN subscribers to please withhold judgement of
Geoff's business until all the facts have been made clear.
I specifically apologize to Geoff for any negative impact this article
may have upon his business.

kind regards,

--
Rick Walker
ICPS President