Risks to investors caused by technological advances in computer trading are to be discussed at a meeting of experts from across the finance, trade and regulation.

The group chaired by Mark Hoban, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, will look at issues surrounding computer trading and help the government to adopt an evidence-based approach to regulation.

He said, 'Computer trading is a hotly debated issue and our project's goal is to shed light on its implications for financial markets and their regulation in Europe and elsewhere.'

The group includes representatives from the International Monetary Fund, Bank of England, Bloomberg and Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

John Beddington, chief scientific adviser for the government, said, 'As technology advances, an increasing proportion of transactions take place at ever higher speeds and with little human involvement, and it's vital that we develop a better understanding of how this may affect markets.'

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