§ Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which body is responsible for the regulation of genetic biotechnology on farm animals. [75175]
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§ Mr. Meacher[holding answer 21 October 2002]There are a number of bodies that have responsibility for regulating the use of genetic biotechnology on farm animals.
Defra are responsible for the Genetically Modified Organisms (Deliberate Release) Regulations 2002 which governs the release and marketing of all genetically modified organisms in the European Union. This would cover any proposal to release a genetically modified farm animal into the environment either for experimental or commercial use.
The Health and Safety Executive are responsible for the Genetically Modified (Contained Use) Regulations 2000 which governs the risks to human health from GMOs (including any farm animals) in contained use.
The Home Office are responsible for the implementation of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. This legislation regulates the use of live animals, including farm animal species, for experimental or other scientific purposes where the use of the animals may cause pain, distress or lasting harm.
Defra are also responsible for the general animal welfare legislation which equally applies to animals produced by biotechnology, once they have been released.