§ Mr. KeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what responsibilities she holds in respect of genetic modification; how this connects with(a) DEFRA and (b) the Department of Health; and if she will make a statement. [69773]
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§ Ms HewittDEFRA has the lead responsibility for genetic modification (GM) policy, sets the regulations concerning the deliberate release and marketing of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and funds a research programme to underpin these regulatory activities. Although DTI has no formal responsibility for GM policy, it leads on competitiveness issues and sponsors the biotechnology sector. The Office of Science and Technology (OST) in the DTI supports the Chief Scientific Advisor in his oversight of transdepartmental science and technology. The OST also funds the Research Councils.
The Agriculture and Environment Biotechnology Commission (AEBC), the Government's independent strategic advisory body on biotechnology issues affecting agriculture and the environment, advises my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the devolved Administrations, and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry.
The Government Departments, including DEFRA, DTI, Department of Health, and the devolved Administrations and agencies work closely together to ensure a co-ordinated approach on GM. In particular, all three Departments are represented on the Ministerial Sub-Committee on Biotechnology—SCI(BIO)—whose terms of reference are
to consider issues relating to biotechnology—including those arising from genetic modification, biotechnology in healthcare and genetic issues—and their economic impact; and to report as necessary to the Committee on Science Policy".