HC Deb 02 February 2004 vol 417 cc691-2W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment his Department has made of the potential for nanoparticles used in consumer goods to slip through membranes and lodge in the brain. [150115]

Ms Hewitt

I have been asked to reply.

My Department has not made any assessment of the potential for nanoparticles used in consumer goods to slip through membranes into the brain. We are aware that recent research has raised concerns in this area.

Last year, my Department commissioned an independent study by the Royal Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering to examine in detail the risks and benefits of nanotechnology. The study includes consideration of environmental, health and safety, ethical and social implications of the technology, both now and in the future, and its outcomes will be used to inform policy on what safeguards might be required, over and above existing legislation and guidance. We expect a report to Government in late spring 2004.