Written question asked by Nigel Griffiths (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 11 December 1996. It was answered by James Clappison (Conservative) on Wednesday, 11 December 1996 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: If he will suspend imports of genetically modified maize until a full assessment has been made of the hazards to human health and a proper labelling regime is in place.

Answer: Mr. Nigel Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will suspend imports of genetically modified maize until a full assessment has been made of the hazards to human health and a proper labelling regime is in place. [8129] Mr. Clappison: In accordance with Council Directive 90/220/EEC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, an assessment on the risks posed to human health and the environment for the genetically modified maize has been carried out by member states. It is now up to the European Commission to take a decision on the importation and marketing of the genetically modified maize. This decision will be in accordance with the provisions of the directive, which include provisions for labelling.

Secondary information