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Mr. Battle: We support the harmonisation of patent laws in the European Union. The problems have existed for a long time and it is important that we resolve them now. We need to ensure that the directive is put forward and openly discussed with full consultation. As it stands, it will not reduce the patent protection that is already available under UK legislation. The fears that have been raised about the directive are not as substantial as some have tried to suggest.
Central to the success of biotechnology is a comprehensive regulatory regime that secures the safety of human health and the environment. We have well- established controls in Britain which we want extended throughout Europe. Bearing in mind the increasing trade in biotechnology products, we need to promote the development of a wider international framework.
Transparency and clear information are vital to consumer choice and we are determined that all food containing genetically modified material should be clearly labelled, to ensure that consumers know what they are buying. Regulation safeguarding human health and the environment plays a key role in maintaining public confidence. The UK has a widely respected system based on advice from the advisory committees on genetic modification, releases to the environment and the novel foods and processes regulations. The setting up of a food standards agency will further underline our commitment to the highest standards of consumer protection.
Our advisory committees on gene therapy and genetic testing and the Human Genetics Advisory Commission will also provide appropriate checks and balances.
In the 17th century, the English physician William Harvey attracted vehement attacks and criticism for his theory on the circulation of blood. Edward Jenner had to publish his research on the use of cowpox to vaccinate against smallpox privately because it was rejected for public publication. There is a long history of condemning discoveries that are later proved to be beneficial. We should bear that in mind. We know how wrong those attitudes were and they seem absurd today.
History teaches us that we ought to remain open-minded to new ideas and developments in science, engineering and technology. I am determined that we in Britain should reap the fullest benefit from such technology. That is not a task for the Government alone. It calls for partnership between industry, the science base and the Government. I am grateful to my hon. Friend for opening up space for the debate with his contribution. I am sorry that there are not more hon. Members here to join in, but I hope that this will be the first of many debates on this vital topic.
Question put and agreed to.
11 Jul 1997 : Column 1251Adjourned accordingly at twenty-seven minutes to Three o'clock.
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