| Health Protection Agency Bill [Lords]
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Mr. Burstow: I am grateful for the Minister's explanation of the relevant clauses, but will she Column Number: 074 confirm that the only consultation that is needed in respect of the several direction-making powers in the clause is with the persons set out in clause 6, who are the relevant, or appropriate, authorities? Will she confirm that no other party or body is to be consulted or involved in that consultation?Miss Johnson: As I said, there is certainly no requirement to consult anyone else. That does not necessarily mean that no one else will be consulted, as the hon. Gentleman will appreciate. The hon. Member for Newark asked whether the responsibility to provide information and advice was being taken seriously. The answer is yes, which is why these matters are included in subsection (1)(b), as they are in the NRPB legislation:
I must point out to the hon. Gentleman, as I have done before, that we recognise the great importance of CBRN threats and the whole question of information, but the HPA is not the only agency involved in CBRN matters and other related matters to which I referred. I believe that that deals with the points raised by Opposition Members, and I commend the clause to the Committee. Question put and agreed to. Clause 3 ordered to stand part of the Bill. Further consideration adjourned.—[Joan Ryan.] Adjourned accordingly at twenty minutes to Five o'clock till Thursday 1 July at five minutes past Nine o'clock.
The following Members attended the Committee:
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| Prepared 29 June 2004 | |
