Explanatory note

These Regulations make provision as respects Wales, for the execution and enforcement of Regulation (EC) No 1830/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 September 2003 concerning the traceability and labelling of genetically modified organisms and the traceability of food and feed products produced from genetically modified organisms and amending Directive 2001/18/EC (OJ No. L 268, 18.10.2003, p.24), which is directly applicable.

The Regulations come into force on 15 July 2005.

Regulation 3 provides for the enforcement of the Regulations and the specified Community provisions.

Regulation 4 make provision for the appointment of inspectors.

Regulation 5 provides powers of entry, including the power to carry out tests and inspections and to take samples.

Regulation 6 enables inspectors to require the provision of information.

Regulation 7 provides for the service by inspectors of notices dealing with incorrectly labelled products.

Regulation 8 makes it an offence to contravene specified Community provisions; to obstruct inspectors in the exercise of powers under these Regulations; and to give false information; and sets out a due diligence defence in respect of the contravention of specified Community provisions.

Regulation 9 makes provision for offences committed due to the fault of another person.

Regulation 10 makes provision for offences committed by corporate bodies.

Regulations 11 and 12 prescribe penalties and specify time limits for bringing prosecutions.

Regulation 13 makes provision for the service of notices.

A Regulatory Appraisal has been prepared. Copies can be obtained from the Food and Market Development Division, National Assembly for Wales, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NQ.