§ Mr. EdwardsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what role the Environment Agency in Wales plays in monitoring experiments in genetically modified crops. [82221]
Mr. Jon Owen JonesNone. The Government are advised on experimental releases of genetically modified organisms by the Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment (ACRE). ACRE carry out an assessment of each application and advise the Government about the risks posed to human health and the environment; whether or not a consent should be granted; and whether any risk management of the release should be required as a condition of the consent. ACRE take a case by case approach to each application, taking into account the specific circumstances of the proposed release or marketing. The consents are enforced by the Health and Safety Executive specialist inspectors.
The Secretary of State for Wales' responsibilities in this area are shortly to transfer to the National Assembly for Wales.