§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what reporting mechanism exists to ensure his views and those of the Minister for the Environment are fully represented at meetings of IGGMOT. [49157]
§ Angela Eagle[holding answer 7 July 1998]: The Interdepartmental Group on Genetic Modification Technology (IGGMOT) is organised by the Office of Science and Technology and comprises officials from interested Government Departments. The objectives of the group are to co-ordinate and develop Government policy on biotechnology including the line to be taken by the United Kingdom in negotiations in the European Union and other international forums. Officials from this Department are fully aware of Environment Ministers views and represent them at meetings. After discussion at IGGMOT the proposed Government line is agreed with all Ministers concerned.