To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what studies his Department has (a) carried out and (b) supported on the possible effects on human health of pollen produced by the starched-altered GM potato EHG92-527-1. (128108)

My Department has not commissioned or supported any studies on the possible effects on human health of pollen produced by GM potato EH92-527-1. As with all dossiers for the commercial release of a genetically modified organism under Directive 2001/18/EC applicants are required to provide information on risks to human health and the environment as part of their submitted dossier. This information is assessed by panels of independent expert scientists in all member states. In the UK this is the Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment. If we or ACRE were not satisfied with the information provided further evidence would be requested.