To ask the Secretary of State for Health who the Chairman of the Human Genetics Commission is; what relevant specialist qualifications he or she holds; what his or her career has been to date; where the post was advertised; how many persons applied for the post; how many were short listed for interview; and if she will make a statement. (97867)

The current chair of the Human Genetics Commission is Baroness Helena Kennedy QC. Baroness Kennedy is a practicing barrister and broadcaster, whose work has included a focus on civil liberties and wider ethical and legal issues. She has a high public profile together with considerable experience in chairing advisory committees and producing reports on sensitive issues. A full register of Baroness Kennedy’s interests can be found at www.hgc.gov.uk.

Advertisements inviting applications for Human Genetics Commission membership and chair posts were placed in the national press in 1999. Seven applications for chair were received and three candidates were shortlisted for interview.