Written question asked by Ian Gibson (Labour) on Wednesday, 25 November 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 December 1998. It was answered by John Battle (Labour) on Thursday, 3 December 1998 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, What plans his Department has for the solicitation of scientific advice in order to facilitate policy decision making. (Failed OPQ). - Inc ref to guidelines on The Use of Scientific Advice in Policy Making.

Answer: Dr. Gibson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans his Department has for the solicitation of scientific advice in order to facilitate policy decision making. [61317] Mr. Battle: DTI has in place a number of procedures and mechanisms to ensure that the appropriate scientific advice is sought and used to inform policy making in line with the Guidelines on "The Use of Scientific Advice in Policy Making". These mechanisms include, for example, the use of in-house experts, independent advisory committees and expert research or technical advice. The Office of Science and Technology carried out a review of how Departments were implementing the Guidelines, and the Chief Scientific Adviser published a report last July which showed that good progress was being made. A further review will be undertaken next year.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 61317; 321 c283-4W
Session: 1998-99
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Government departments Technology Research Science Scientific advisers