§ Mr. Arnoldasked the Secretary of State for Industry what is the present cost to public funds of the national testing laboratory accreditation scheme.
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§ Mr. WakehamThe estimated net cost to the Government for the financial year 1981–82 is £160,000.
§ Mr. Arnoldasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many approved laboratories under the national laboratory accreditation scheme there are; and whether he has any plans to increase the number.
§ Mr. WakehamThe national testing laboratory accreditation scheme (NATLAS) was launched on 22 October 1981. To date seven laboratories have been enrolled as members of the scheme. A further 69 have been offered quotations. It is planned to increase the numbers as quickly as possible. All laboratories that undertake tests within the scope of the scheme are eligible to seek accreditation.
§ Mr. Arnoldasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he is satisfied with the level of standards at laboratories listed under the national laboratory accreditation scheme; and what information he has as to whether such standards are generally recognised abroad.
§ Mr. WakehamYes: all laboratories accredited under the national testing laboratory accreditation scheme meet standards specified by the Scheme. The recognition of these standards abroad has yet to be tested. However, the criteria for assessment of technical competence of the laboratories have been developed in line with, and are broadly equivalent to, those adopted by the International Standards Organisation.