Question
To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to the remarks by Earl Howe on 6 May (Official Report, col. 699–701), whether they will invite proposals from interested parties to help inform the consultation process prior to the formal consultation to transfer functions of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the Human Tissue Authority.
Answer
The proposed consultation later this year as to where the functions of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the Human Tissue Authority are best transferred will include an impact assessment. The impact assessment will take account of efficiency measures proposed by the two bodies. The department has been in discussion with key stakeholders since the publication of its review of its arm's-length bodies in July 2010. Stakeholders will also be able to take part in the planned consultation exercise on the transfer of functions.