HC Deb 15 July 2002 vol 389 cc36-7W
Mr. Wiggin

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent representations she has received regarding GM foods; and if she will make a statement. [69213]

Mr. Meacher

This year the Department has received over 40 representations on the subject of GM foods, from various organisations and individuals, including consumer groups. environmental groups, industry and members of the public.

Mr. Wiggin

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent talks she has had regarding GM foods with members of the European Parliament; and what the conclusions from those talks were. [69015]

Mr. Meacher

In line with normal practice for reports passing through the European Parliament, written briefing setting out the UK Government's views on the Commission's proposals on the traceability and labelling of GMOs and on GM food and feed was sent to all UK Members of the Parliament in advance of the Parliament's discussions on these proposals. Officials from DEFRA and the Food Standards Agency spoke with and visited Members of the European Parliament interested in obtaining further information about the Government's view.

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