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Written question asked by Lord Browne of Madingley (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Wallace of Saltaire (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 8 November 2012.


International Scientific Community: Governmental Advice

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what representations they have made to the Government of Italy about the prison sentences passed on seven members of the country’s National Commission for the Forecast and Prevention of Major Risks for providing “falsely reassuring statements”; and what assessment they have made of that prosecution’s impact on the ability and willingness of the international scientific community to provide advice to governments.[HL2855]

Answer

The sentences were imposed by an Italian court which is independent of the Italian Government. We understand all seven individuals will appeal against the sentence.

The Government have not made a formal assessment of how this case might affect the ability and willingness of the international scientific community to provide advice to governments but the Minister for Europe, my right honourable friend the Member for Aylesbury (Mr Lidington), has expressed to the Italian Government our concern about the potential impact of the case.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
740 c233WA; HL2855
Session
2012-13
Subjects
Convictions Homicide Forecasts Earthquakes Italy Scientists
Link
View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk