New biotech regulation for UK

The British government announced its decision last week to change the way in which biotechnology developments are regulated. Two new strategic bodies will be set up to oversee the work of 17 committees involved in bioscience regulation - a Human Genetics Commission, replacing the existing Human Genetics Advisory Commission, will advise on the use of biotechnology in healthcare and the Agricultural and Environment Biotechnology Commission is to monitor the effects of biotechnology in agriculture. Furthermore, there is to be greater public access to the decision-making process and more ways for the public and pressure groups to make their views known. These changes come in the wake of intense public concern about the effects of genetically modified foods on health and the environment.

The results of a MORI survey on public attitudes to bioscience regulation, published last week, reveal a public perception of inadequate control over research in the life sciences.