Bayer hires external law firm to probe Monsanto stakeholder file issue
US seed maker is alleged to have compiled a list of 200 names in the hope of influencing their positions on pesticides
Frankfurt — Bayer said on Sunday it was hiring an external law firm to investigate French media complaints that Monsanto, the US seed maker it took over in 2018, had compiled a file of influential personalities. The German life sciences and pharmaceuticals group said that, following an internal review, it understood that this initiative had raised concerns and criticism. “This is not the way Bayer seeks dialogue with society and stakeholders. We apologise for this behaviour,” Bayer said. It added, however, that there was no indication that compiling the lists was illegal. French prosecutors opened an inquiry on Friday after newspaper Le Monde filed a complaint alleging that Monsanto had compiled a file of 200 names, including journalists and legislators, in the hope of influencing their positions on pesticides. Roundup ruling The French investigation is the latest fallout from Bayer’s $63bn takeover of Monsanto. It already faces potentially heavy costs from US class-action lawsuits ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.