Written statement: Reclassification of the Committee on Mutagenicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment - Oct 15

Minister for Public Health (Ashley Dalton): The Committee on Mutagenicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COM) is an Advisory Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).

COM's members serve on a voluntary basis and are not remunerated. Their highly valuable independent expert advice informs policy decisions across government on appropriate safeguards on health risks from mutagenic compounds in consumers products, for example restrictions or regulations on contaminants in food packaging.

Earlier this year, the Cabinet Office undertook a review of Arm's Length Bodies in line with the aims of the Plan for Change as set out by the Government. As part of the outputs of this review, COM will be reclassified as a Departmental Expert Committee.

COM will continue to maintain the current remit, secretariat and membership to allow the continuity of its work and secure its critical functions with no disruption to its operations or expert advice.