HL Deb 16 January 2004 vol 657 c105WA
Lord Patten

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether it is their policy that scientists who have conducted legal experiments upon live animals may not be awarded honours. [HL584]

The Lord President of the Council (Baroness Amos)

The Government have no such policy. Honours candidates are considered on an individual basis against the competing merits of others considered at the same time. Honours have gone to individuals involved in this area in the past and they continue to be assessed on the same basis as all other candidates.

Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the safeguards against bias and discrimination in the honours system? [HL605]

Baroness Amos

Every effort is made to find good honours candidates from every walk of life and field of activity. All awards are made strictly on merit.

Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will establish an independent review of the honours system? [HL606]

Baroness Amos

Sir Hayden Phillips is leading a review of the honours system with the aim of providing greater transparency and introducing a stronger independent element into the honours process.