§ Mr. McWalterTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when the Government plan to publish their response to the Human Genetics Advisory Commission's report on the Implications of Genetic Testing for Insurance. [58945]
§ Mr. MandelsonMy noble Friend the Minister for Science today published, in conjunction with the Minister for Public Health, the Government's response to the HGAC report. In undertaking consideration of this issue, the Government have placed great importance on ensuring fairness of treatment for people seeking insurance cover. The response sets out a number of proposals which seek to build on the progress already made by the Association of British Insurers in developing industry-wide standards on underwriting and confidentiality. In line with the recommendations made in the HGAC report, the proposals include the establishment of an independent626W mechanism to evaluate the scientific and actuarial relevance of any genetic tests before they can be taken into account by insurers. Copies of the response have been placed in the Library.