Human Genetics

HC Deb 19 April 1999 vol 329 cc449-50W

Mrs. Ann Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if it is his policy that members of the Human Genetics Advisory Commission should avoid conflicts of interest.[79532]

Mr. Battle

It is important that advice is sought from those people best placed to provide it. The members of the Human Genetics Advisory Commission, therefore, have a range of backgrounds, experience, and interests. As with members of any public body, they are required to declare any personal or business interest which may influence their judgment and should follow all the appropriate guidance whenever a conflict arises.

Mrs. Ann Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to his answer of 18 March 1999,Official Report, column 716, where the declarations of interest of members of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the Human Genetics Advisory Commission are available for public inspection. [79506]

Mr. Battle

I understand that a list is maintained at the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority at Paxton House, 30 Artillery Lane, London El 7LS (Tel: [phone]). For the Human Genetics Advisory Commission a list is maintained by the secretariat at the Office of Science and Technology, Albany House, 94–98 Petty France, London SW1H 9ST (Tel: [phone]). I understand that both bodies intend to publish the list in their forthcoming Annual Reports.