§ Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on her Department's policy regarding the precautionary principle. [38273]
§ Mr. MorleyThe precautionary principle holds that the absence of scientific proof should not delay or prevent proportionate measures to remove or reduce threats of serious harm. Where there is scientific uncertainty DEFRA will adopt a precautionary approach where it is considered appropriate. In doing this, we are mindful of the EU Council resolution on the precautionary principle and of the Government's response to the report of the BSE Inquiry.