Written question asked by Peter Ainsworth (Conservative) on Monday, 23 May 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 May 2005. It was answered by Caroline Flint (Labour) on Thursday, 9 June 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Genetically Modified Food

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures she is taking to assess whether the genetically modified corn MON 863 is safe for human consumption; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: [holding answer 26 May 2005]: Genetically-modified crops undergo a rigorous safety evaluation before they are authorised in the European Union for food use for human consumption. The European Food Safety Authority in its safety assessment of MON 863 stated that there were no concerns over the safety of the maize. This was endorsed by the United Kingdom Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes. A decision has not yet been taken on the authorisation of MON 863 maize for food use in the EU.

Secondary information