§ Lord Alton of Liverpoolasked Her Majesty's Government:
What are the terms of reference of the proposed new Independent Expert Advisory Group on Human Cloning; when they expect to announce appointments of members of the group; and when they expect it to commence work; and [HL3602]
With whom they intend to consult about appointments to the proposed new Independent Expert Advisory Group on Human Cloning; when they expect that consultation to take place; and whether membership of the group will include experts on medical ethics and lay members as well as medical and scientific representatives; and [HL3603]
Whether they will ensure that individuals with financial links with the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are not appointed to membership of the proposed new Independent Expert Advisory Group on Human Cloning; and, if not, why not; and [HL3604]
Whether they will ensure that individuals who are appointed to membership of the proposed new Independent Expert Advisory Group on Human Cloning include those who respect the sanctity of human life; and, if not, why not; and [HL3605]
Whether the proposed new Independent Expert Advisory Group on Human Cloning will specifically be required to look into alternatives to human cloning for ostensibly therapeutic purposes. [HL3606]
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§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Baroness Hayman)We hope to be able to announce both the terms of reference and membership of the Chief Medical Officer's expert advisory group on cloning shortly. We intend to ensure that an appropriate range of expertise is represented on the group and that this is achieved in accordance with the guidelines from the Government's Chief Scientific AdviserThe Use of Scientific Advice in Policy Making published in March 1997. Copies of those guidelines are available in the Library.