Such tests can tell if a person has an increased chance of developing inherited disorders, such as types of cancer.

The spectre of genetic tests by commercial companies has led to fears some people could be refused insurance or forced to pay increased premiums.

Trade and Industry Minister Lord Sainsbury revealed the government plans to set up an independent evaluation committee to look into testing.

Lord Sainsbury: "This is a process which will take place over the next decade"

He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "The knowledge is in a state of flux. That is why we have looked ahead with these regulations and said we don't want these tests used until they have been agreed to have a sound basis by an independent body."

He said eight tests existed at present to check for the possibility a person would develop an inherited disease.

Only a couple of these were likely to be given the go-ahead for future use, he said.

Until then, insurance companies would be banned from using such tests.

The government's human genetics advisory committee ruled last year that insurance companies were not qualified to interpret genetic tests.

Committee member Professor Martin Bobrow told Today: "Our concern was that the insurers were looking at genetic tests and making judgements which weren't well-based, which weren't transparent and which, in some cases, weren't fair."

Association of British Insurers spokesman Vic Rance said insurance companies would comply with the rules but would none the less want to know the results of previously taken tests.

"If somebody has had a genetic test then the insurance company wants to know the result of it.