§ Mr. Alan SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to amend the remit of the Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment; and what proposals for public participation in any decision relating to such changes he intends to make. [57412]
§ Mr. MeacherThe terms of reference for the Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment already include the provision of advice on request to the Secretary of State. In future we shall be seeking advice from ACRE not only on the direct and indirect effects of genetically modified organisms into the environment but also on the possible resultant changes in agronomic practice and the subsequent effects on biodiversity. ACRE's advice on these questions will be made public through the DETR public register.