To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to review the work of the Gene Therapy Advisory Committee. [20452]

The Gene Therapy Advisory Committee has performed extremely successfully since its establishment in 1993. As is usual with all advisory bodies, which have operated for a number of years, I have asked a small team to undertake a review of GTAC's role and functions. I expect the review team to present its recommendations early in the new year.The members are Mrs. Marcia Fry (Department of Health) Chair, Professor Kay avies—Professor of Genetics, Oxford University, Dr. Brian Davis—Medicines Control Agency, Professor Jim McEwen—Multicentre Research Ethics Committee Chairman, Scotland, Dr. Peter Rigby—National Institute for Medical Research, Mr. Indarjit Singh—Member of British Medical Association Ethics Committee and Dr. Richard Tiner—Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry.