To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Italy about the prison sentences passed on seven members of the country's National Commission for the Forecast and Prevention of Major Risks for providing "falsely reassuring statements"; and what assessment they have made of that prosecution's impact on the ability and willingness of the international scientific community to provide advice to governments.

The sentences were imposed by an Italian court which is independent of the Italian Government. We understand all seven individuals will appeal against the sentence.

The Government have not made a formal assessment of how this case might affect the ability and willingness of the international scientific community to provide advice to governments but the Minister for Europe, my right honourable friend Mr Lidington, has expressed to the Italian Government our concern about the potential impact of the case.