TOMORROW'S SCIENCE POLICY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 225

 As John Diebold points out in Issues in Science and Technology (Spring
1986), there is no lack of examples of U.S. achievements in getting science
to market. From jet engines to computers, we have excelled in the process
of applying scientific insights to commercially profitable ventures and thus
to widespread practical use. American agriculture is an outstanding exam-
ple of that ability.
 While progress in biotechnology can create opportunities for us, it does
not by itself create economic growth. It, therefore, becomes important for
government to have a strong commitment to the role of science in the
national well-being and to the entrepreneurial spirit-the freedom and
initiative to explore new markets.
 Ian Ross, President of AT&T, stated that "Technological innovation...is
seen as a major force for improving the nation's productivity, industrial
competitiveness, and economic growth...Most economists concur that 50
to 60 percent of our economic growth can be attributed to technological
innovation."
 He was speaking of technology in the broader sense, but the idea holds
for biotechnology as well. According to the New York Times, some analysts
predict that biotechnology product sales in agriculture alone could top $5
billion by the end of the century.
 American agriculture in particular is looking to biotechnology for lower
unit production costs and enhanced quality of products to maintain U.S.
competitiveness in international trade.
 I want to underscore the critical need we have as a nation to maintain a
world leadership position in molecular biology. Our international col-
leagues expect us to continue to move forward and to do our share in this
critical endeavor.


 REGULATION

 The point that's bound to come up next is that these necessary results do
not occur in a vacuum. Success in biotechnology can depend as much on
government regulation and involvement as on the quality of a product.
 Industries cannot afford to wait three or four years in order to test their
products. As the New York Times points out, it's unwise, even tragic, to
spend time pushing papers and paying lawyers while baby pigs die of
pseudorabies or the Florida citrus crop freezes on the trees.
 Government is naturally a supportive partner of the fledgling biotech-
nology industry and the contributions it can make to the quality of life. At