F1 tomato varities information

I've searched for similar things before Steve with no luck. I reckon you are right, they probably don't want to give away any secrets, as once a good new variety gets established it must be a big money spinner.

 

Named varieties of plants are protected by Plant Breeders Rights, these are administered by Defra in Cambridge who hold lists of who bred what, I don't think these lists are publically available on-line.

Basically when someone breeds a new variety they are protected (like copyright law) from others breeding and selling seeds/plants with that name (or with the same traits). The original breeder can keep the stock to themselves or they can sell the rights or licence others to grow them. I used to work for a well known seed company, we had our own breeding ground and owned the rights to many varieties but we also grew and sold on other's seeds under licence. As there is big business involved I very much doubt you would be able to find F1 type seed parent stock anywhere even if it was just for your own use.