The Imperial Cancer Research Fund has called for a two or three-year moratorium on insurance companies using genetic information.

The charity fears that government plans to make genetic testing more widespread on the NHS, as part of the battle against cancers and other diseases, could be undermined if their insurance companies were given access to the results.

The government yesterday confirmed a moratorium on the use of gene tests by insurance companies whilst awaiting a report from the Human Genetics Commission. The report expected in mid-May is thought to recommend a two-year moratorium and the government has pledged to back up the ban by legislation if necessary.