Ian Wilmut, the scientist who led the team that cloned Dolly the sheep, has called upon scientists to take note of public concerns about the progress of genetic science. He warns that there is a danger of missing scientific opportunities because of public fears and misunderstandings.
Speaking at a meeting about public confidence in biomedical science in Edinburgh last week, Professor Wilmut said that there should be very ambitious research projects, which scientists should not be at all shy or embarrassed about. But he cautioned that 'decisions on techniques cannot be left to those directly involved, such as scientists, doctors, patients and families, because they are too closely involved'.
Professor Wilmut told the delegates that there was a clear obligation on the academic and commercial communities to explain their research objectives, their potential value and any risks associated with them.
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Listen to public, says Dolly scientist
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