Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 9 June 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 15 June 1999. It was answered by Lord Cunningham of Felling (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 June 1999 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

Cabinet Office

Question: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to his Answer of 8th June 1999, 332 c290W, on biotechnology, what account he took of (a) the Government's freedom of information policy and (b) the implications for public confidence in the Government's policies on biotechnology, in his decision not to provide further details in respect of questions asked about the Biodiversity Presentation Group.

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to his answer of 8 June 1999, Official Report, column 290, on biotechnology, what account he took of (a) the Government's freedom of information policy and (b) the implications for public confidence in the Government's policies on biotechnology, in his decision not to provide further details in respect of questions asked about the Biodiversity Presentation Group. [86889] Dr. Jack Cunningham: The Biotechnology Presentation Group is an internal working group. In line with the practice of successive Administrations, it is not the normal practice of Governments to release details of internal discussion, advice to Ministers, specific meetings or their content. This principle is reflected in the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 333 c127W; 86889
Session: 1998-99
Subjects: Disclosure of information Biotechnology Freedom of information Biotechnology Presentation Group