HL Deb 02 February 1998 vol 585 cc84-5WA
The Countess of Mar

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the terms of reference of the new ad hoc advisory group on vitamins and minerals; who has been appointed to chair and serve upon that group; what will be their timetable; and whether the deliberations and recommendations of the group will be published regularly. [HL234]

Lord Donoughue

The terms of reference of the ad hoc expert group on vitamins and minerals are to:

establish principles on which controls for ensuring the safety of vitamin and mineral supplements sold under food law can be based;

review the levels of individual vitamins and minerals associated with adverse effects;

recommend maximum levels of vitamins and minerals in supplements if appropriate; and

report to the FAC.

The group will also be able to advise on the levels of vitamins and minerals in fortified foods, if it is felt appropriate.

No appointments have yet been made. It is envisaged that the group will take two years in which to complete its work and report to the Food Advisory Committee. Information on the group's deliberations and recommendations will be published.

Baroness Anelay of St. Johns

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Lord Donoughue to the Baroness Lestor of Eccles on 12 January (WA 181), whether they will publish the list of those persons who are members of the ad hoc expert group. [HL217]

Lord Donoughue

No appointments have yet been made to the new ad hoc expert group. A list of members will be published when appointments have been made.