HC Deb 21 July 1999 vol 335 c567W
12. Mr. Tyler

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if he will publish the Government's proposals to ensure effective inter-departmental co-ordination of policies on genetic modification, in preparation for the World Trade Organisation meeting in Seattle in November. [90882]

Dr. Jack Cunningham

The Ministerial Group on Biotechnology and Genetic-Modification reviews all areas of Government policy relating to genetic modification. There will be effective interdepartmental co-ordination in preparation for the World Trade Organisation meeting in Seattle with regard to all subjects under discussion.

13. Dr. Gibson

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what sources of advice he uses on the issue of genetically modified food. [90883]

Dr. Jack Cunningham

The Government are advised on the issue of genetically modified foods by a range of sources including expert advisory committees such as the Advisory Committee for Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP). We also receive advice from the Chief Scientific Adviser, and the Chief Medical Officer.

My ministerial colleagues and I are also in regular contact with a large number of groups which have an interest in genetically modified foods such as consumer groups, environmental groups and biotechnology companies.

17. Mr. Robathan

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what representations he has received on the documents relating to genetically modified food produced by the chief medical officer and the chief scientific adviser and published by them. [90888]

Dr. Jack Cunningham

I have received a number of representations from hon. Members, consumer groups, environmental groups and biotechnology companies.