Report Sets Out How the UK Could Take Lead in Shaping Regulation for Genetic Technologies

A new report by the Regulatory Horizons Council sets out how the United Kingdom could take a leading role in shaping regulation that will allow innovative and safe products using genetic technologies to be commercialized.

The report supports the proposals from recent government consultation and builds on them by providing additional recommendations for what a new regulatory approach should look like over the longer term. It suggests the changes could significantly reduce the cost and time to market for new products, unlocking innovation in the development of plant and animal varieties that can benefit consumers, the environment, and long-term economic growth in the UK. The report also points to how the UK could take advantage of its departure from the European Union to restructure regulation to make it more scientifically credible, proportionate to both risks and benefits, as well as providing more certainty to businesses looking to invest in these technologies.

In a separate press notice, the British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) welcomes the report, saying, "In its report, the Regulatory Horizons is also right to highlight the importance of genetic innovation as the foundation for more sustainable agriculture, particularly in helping farmers adapt to climate change and to protect crops against pests and diseases while reducing chemical use."

For more details, read the news story on the UK Government website. The BSPB press release is available in BSPB News.