Written question asked by Michael Meacher (Labour) on Friday, 9 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 15 July 2004. It was answered by Patricia Hewitt (Labour) on Thursday, 15 July 2004 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 the Government will take steps to protect individual members of scientific advisory committees from litigation based on allegations of negligent mis-statement which may follow publication of their scientific views as part of the committees' work. - Inc ref to the Code of Practice for Scientific Advisory Committees Section 34-35.

Answer: Mr. Meacher: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if the Government will take steps to protect individual members of scientific advisory committees from litigation based on allegations of negligent mis-statement which may follow publication of their scientific views as part of the committees' work. [184011] Ms Hewitt: The Code of Practice sets out the way in which scientific advisory committees should reach and present their views. Section 34-35 addresses potential liabilities of, and indemnity for committee members.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 184011; 423 c1291W;423 c1292W
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Codes of practice Committees Advisory bodies Science Scientific advisers
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk