The Commons Science and Technology Committee inquiry into hybrid embryo research 2007: credible, reliable and objective?
In 2006 the Government issued a white paper in which it proposed a ban on human-animal embryo research pending greater clarity on its potential. The Commons Select Committee on Science and Technology initiated an Inquiry and concluded that such research was necessary and should be permitted immediately. The Government agreed and this is reflected in revised legislation. The Government has issued guidelines on the gathering and use of scientific advice and evidence, designed to ensure that these are "credible, reliable and objective." This article tests the Committee's approach in the light of its remit and these, and other, relevant guidelines and concludes that it failed to meet these standards. Rather it effectively ceded to an interest group the regulation of its own activities. The article ends by suggesting alterations to the Committee's remit and composition designed to ensure that the public interest is better protected in future.
Alumnus of St. Mary's University College, Twickenham, UK. p.gately@btinternet.com
Pauline
P
Gately
D026683:Advisory Committees; D000818:Animals; D002678:Chimera; D033041:Embryo Research / Q000941:ethics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D004622:Embryo, Mammalian; D033161:Government Regulation; D006801:Humans; D006113:United Kingdom