HC Deb 10 December 1996 vol 287 cc94-5W
Mr. Pickthall

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many genetically engineered crops are permitted to be grown in the United States. [7841]

Mr. Clappison

The Secretary of State has granted 99 consents for specific trials of genetically modified engineered crops in Great Britain since the Genetically Modified Organisms (Deliberate Release) Regulations 1992—as amended in 1995—came into force on 1 February 1993. The information relating to Northern Ireland is a matter for my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. Three genetically modified crops have been authorised to be grown throughout the European Union under the marketing provisions of Council directive 90/220/EEC.

Mr. Pickthall

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what restrictions there are on the importation of genetically engineered crops into the United Kingdom. [7842]

Mr. Clappison

The importation and marketing of genetically modified engineered crops in Great Britain are controlled by part VI of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and regulations made under it, in particular for import the Genetically Modified Organisms (Risk Assessment) (Records and Exemption) Regulations 1996, as amended in 1995. The information relating to Northern Ireland is a matter for my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.