§ Mr. MatesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether any decision has been made on the future management of the Centre for Applied Microbiology and Research.
§ Mr. DorrellMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has been carefully considering a proposal from Porton International to acquire the Centre for Applied Microbiology and Research. The recent conflict in the Gulf raised a number of questions about certain defence-related capabilities which are unique to CAMR. Although we see no reason in principle why much of CAMR's work should not be transferred to the private sector, some of its work, including the public health and defence-related work, needs to remain under public sector control. We have therefore decided that the sale of CAMR would not at present be appropriate. We shall be giving further consideration to the arrangements needed for CAMR to fulfil its public health and defence-related roles, and to the options for its future management and financing. This decision does not affect the continuing business arrangements between CAM R and Porton International. A further announcement will be made as soon as possible.