Page:Biological Weapons Act 1974 (UKPGA 1974-6 qp).pdf/2

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An Act to prohibit the development, production, acquisition and possession of certain biological agents and toxins and of biological weapons.

by the Queen’s most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:—

1.—(1) No person shall develop, produce, stockpile, acquire or retain—
 * (a) any biological agent or toxin of a type and in a quantity that has no justification for prophylactic, protective or other peaceful purposes; or
 * (b) any weapon, equipment or means of delivery designed to use biological agents or toxins for hostile purposes or in armed conflict.

(2) In this section—
 * “biological agent” means any microbial or other biological agent; and
 * “toxin” means any toxin, whatever its origin or method of production.

(3) Any person contravening this section shall be guilty of an offence and shall, on conviction on indictment, be liable to imprisonment for life.

2.—(1) Proceedings for an offence under section 1 above shall not be instituted—
 * (a) in England or Wales, except by or with the consent of the Attorney General; or