Written question asked by Brian Iddon (Labour) on Thursday, 30 July 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 31 July 1998. It was answered by Lord Mandelson (Labour) on Friday, 31 July 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, if he will comment on the implementation of the Office of Science and Technology's guidelines on the use of Scientific Advice in Policy Making by Government Departments. - Includes ref to report in Library (Dep 98/909).

Answer: Dr. Iddon: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the implementation of the Office of Science and Technology's guidelines on the use of Scientific Advice in Policy Making by Government Departments. [55236] Mr. Mandelson: The Government place great importance on the implementation of the guidelines as a way of ensuring the highest standards of integrity and openness in their use of scientific advice. The Government's Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Robert May, has recently compiled a report in conjunction with departmental Chief Scientists on how the guidelines are being implemented by Departments. The main conclusions from this work are set out in a report, a copy of which has been today placed in the Library of the House. The guidelines were prepared only a year ago but it is encouraging to see that there is already a high level of compliance across Departments. The report contains a number of examples of good practice, but it is also clear that there is a good deal of scope for further action. There is a considerable amount which Departments can learn from each other and we look forward to further progress in the next twelve months.

Secondary information