§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if NHS trusts will have to negotiate their own licences to test with or for a patented gene; and if she will make a statement on the Government's policy in respect of ensuring that genetic testing is equally available throughout the United Kingdom. [16372]
§ Ms Jowell[holding answer 17 November 1997]]: I have been asked to reply.
It is for a patent owner to give permission for someone else to use his invention by granting a licence. The terms of this licence is a matter for the patent owner and the potential licensee. As separate legal entities, trusts, individually or as members of consortia are in a position to negotiate their own patent licences. Genetic testing is usually provided through clinical genetic services purchased by health authorities for their local population.