Written question asked by Colin Pickthall (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 27 June 1997. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Friday, 27 June 1997 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: What discussions he has had with the Advisory Committee for Genetic Modification about their consideration of allowing direct discharge of untreated liquid wastes from biotech companies into the environment.

Answer: Mr. Pickthall: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what discussions he has had with the Advisory Committee for Genetic Modification about its consideration of allowing direct discharge of untreated liquid wastes from biotech companies into the environment. [5647] Angela Eagle: The Health and Safety Commission's Advisory Committee on Genetic Modification (ACGM) is currently considering, in consultation with interested bodies, the matter of direct discharge of those untreated liquid wastes which are judged, on the basis of thorough risk assessment, not to pose a risk of harm to the environment. This matter is covered by the Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations 1992, as amended in 1996. The Health and Safety Executive enforces these Regulations and will consider ACGM's advice before agreeing with the relevant Departments (so far as matters relate to the environment) the best way to proceed.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 5647; 296 c667W;296 c669W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Genetically modified organisms Waste disposal Advisory Committee on Genetic Modification