§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office (1) what(a) the relationship is between and (b) the relative responsibilities are of the (i) Interdepartmental Group on Genetic Modification Technology and (ii) MISC 6; [87827]
(2) what is the membership of the Interdepartmental Group on Genetic Modification Technology; how often it has met; and if he will make a statement. [87826]
§ Dr. Jack CunninghamThe Interdepartmental Group on Genetic Modification Technology (IGGMOT) is an internal forum for officials across Government to co-ordinate policy matters on genetic modification. The Ministerial Group on Biotechnology and Genetic Modification (MISC 6) is responsible for making decisions on Government policy in respect of biotechnology. IGGMOT supports the work of Ministers by ensuring that the wide range of Government Departments with an interest in this issue are in close and regular contact with one another about developments. It is not the normal practice of Government to release details of internal discussions, advice to Ministers, specific meetings or their content. This principle is reflected in the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.