HC Deb 05 March 1999 vol 326 cc960-1W
Mr. Redwood

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the commercial licences which have been granted since 1 May 1997 for the growing of genetically modified seeds; which companies and products were covered by those licences; when growing is expected to begin; and if he will make a statement. [73028]

Mr. Meacher

[holding answer 25 February 1999]: The table shows the consents which have been issued under Part C of Directive 90/220/EEC since 1 May 1997 for the commercial growing of GM plants. No consents for growing have been issued by the UK since 1 May 1997, but, once a consent is issued to another member state, it applies to all EU countries. Commercial planting of approved seeds in the UK could begin once the UK's internal regulatory processes are complete. This includes placing the varieties on the National Seed List.

Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the field trials for GMOs that are currently taking place indicating in each case the(a) location, (b) crop being grown and (c) date by which the trial will be concluded. [73264]

Mr. Meacher

[holding answer 2 March 1999]: Details on all field trials, including the information the hon. Member requests, is held on the statutory register maintained by DETR. This is available for public inspection.