§ Lord Campbell-Savoursasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the hearing rights available to the general public under the Seeds (National Lists of Varieties) Regulations 2001 apply in the case of the listing of Sheridan, a genetically modified forage maize; and [HL5203]
Under which regulations, in relation to which bodies, persons wishing to object to the listing of Sheridan as a genetically modified forage maize are entitled to be heard at a public hearing. [HL5204]
§ Lord WhittyAlthough statutory tests and trials on Sheridan have been completed, Ministers have yet to consider whether to propose its addition to the national list. In the event that a decision to propose listing is made, the Seeds (National Lists of Varieties) Regulations 2001 provided that, upon paymentof the appropriate fee, any person wishing to object may make either written representations against the proposal and/or request the right to make oral representations at a hearing.
In reply to a Parliamentary Question in another place on 28 November 2000, (HC Deb Volume 357, Col. 575W), the Government made it clear that the arrangements for requesting a hearing on proposed national list decisions would be reviewed following the CHARDON LL Hearing, in order to consider whether the current arrangements were satisfactory for all parties. The hearing closed on 13 June 2002. We intend to consult all interested parties during the summer on proposals for change.