§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment, pursuant to his answer to the hon. Member for Gordon,Official Report, 23 March, columns 783-84, why it would be inappropriate to list the locations of the three centres where applications for the release of genetically manipulated organisms are under review.
§ Mr. NichollsApplicants are in discussion with the Health and Safety Executive and relevant Government Departments about these proposals and final clearance is expected shortly. In accordance with its normal practice in such circumstances the Health and Safety Executive will 223W ask the centres concerned to issue a press release. Until the current discussions are completed there is no certainty that any release will take place and it is reasonable to respect concerns regarding commercial confidentiality.