Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 23 July 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 29 July 1998. It was answered by Lord Rooker (Labour) on Wednesday, 29 July 1998 on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food

Question: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, following the Court of Appeal judgment on Tuesday 21 July, Regina v Watson, if he will instruct NIAB to de-tassel the genetically modified maize at Hood Barton. - (Holding answer 28 July 1998).

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food following the Court of Appeal judgment on Tuesday 21 July, Regina v Watson, if he will instruct NIAB to de-tassle the genetically modified maize at Hood Barton. [52850] Mr. Rooker: [holding answer 28 July 1998]: No. The Court of Appeal drew a clear distinction between the health and safety implications of releasing genetically modified organisms dealt with by the Environment Protection Act 1990 and the National List regime, which is essentially concerned with marketing. The Court rejected the application to order destruction of the genetically modified maize. Moreover, it said explicitly that the Minister himself could not properly destroy or require destruction of these plants under the National List regime.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 317 c352W; 52850
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Court of Appeal Genetically modified organisms Judgements Maize Hood Barton