To ask the President of the Board of Trade what assessment she has made of the implications for the insurance industry of developments which allow prognosis of an individual's future health based on analysis of genetic material. [5947]

The Human Genetics Advisory Commission (HGAC) has been established to take a broad overview of developments in human genetics. It has identified the implications of genetic testing for Insurance as an immediate priority. An Insurance sub-group is taking this forward, and I look forward to receiving the HGAC's advice in due course.

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what consideration she is giving to the recommendations of the Science and Technology Committee that a Genetics Commission with regulatory powers should be established in its Third report, 1994–95, Human Genetics: the science and its consequences, (HC41); and what discussions she has had on this subject with the Association of British Insurers. [4565]

Human genetics is a fast-moving field which requires a flexible approach, avoiding undue regulation. I look forward to receiving advice in due course from the Human Genetics Advisory Commission (HGAC), which has identified the implications of genetic testing for insurance as an immediate priority.My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade has not yet had discussions on this subject with the Association of British Insurers.