HC Deb 08 December 1975 vol 902 cc43-4W
Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science on how many occasions the Williams Working Party has met since the announcement of its formation to follow up the Ashby Report on the Experimental Manipulation of the Genetic Composition of Microorganisms; and when it is anticipated that the working party will report.

Mr. Mulley

The Working Party has so far met twice. I understand that it hopes to report in the first half of 1976.

Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what arrangements have been made by the Williams Working Party to consult the TUC unions generally, and ASTMS specifically, in respect of the report that it is preparing.

Mr. Mulley

I understand that the Working Party hopes to have advanced its own deliberations sufficiently to promote a basis for consultation with other bodies early in the New Year. The arrangements for this consultation are a matter for the Working Party, but I understand it is envisaged that TUC unions, including ASTMS, will be involved.

Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many representatives of trade unions were invited to serve on the Williams Working Party; why ASTMS, in view of its specialist knowledge, was not invited to serve; and if he will now invite ASTMS to provide representatives for this working party.

Mr. Mulley

No representatives of either trade unions or management were appointed since it was decided that a small expert Working Party, not representatives of any particular interests, was the best way of tackling this problem. But, as I made clear in announcing the setting up of the Working Party, it is intended that there shall be full consultation with all concerned, including management and trade union interests. To make new appointments at this stage would delay the progress of the Working Party and change its character.

Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether finance will be available to the Medical Research Council, the universities and the National Health Service to carry out the findings of the Williams Working Party.

Mr. Mulley

Until the Working Party's findings are known, it is premature to consider possible financial implications.