Food Standards Act 1999

23 Consideration of objectives, risks, costs and benefits, etc

(1) In carrying out its functions the Agency shall pay due regard to the statement of objectives and practices under section 22.

(2) The Agency, in considering whether or not to exercise any power, or the manner in which to exercise any power, shall take into account (among other things)—

(a) the nature and magnitude of any risks to public health, or other risks, which are relevant to the decision (including any uncertainty as to the adequacy or reliability of the available information);

(b) the likely costs and benefits of the exercise or non-exercise of the power or its exercise in any manner which the Agency is considering; and

(c) any relevant advice or information given to it by an advisory committee (whether or not given at the Agency’s request).

(3) The duty under subsection (2)—

(a) does not apply to the extent that it is unreasonable or impracticable for it to do so in view of the nature or purpose of the power or in the circumstances of the particular case; and

(b) does not affect the obligation of the Agency to discharge any other duties imposed on it.