EC reports on life sciences and biotechnology strategy 27/4/04. By the Public Health Genetics Unit In 2002 the European Commission released a special publication on their strategic vision for life sciences and biotechnology up to 2010, comprising a policy paper and an action plan. The EC has now presented a report on the progress in implementation of this strategy.

In their press release, the EC notes the vital contribution of biotechnology to a range of industries but cautions that successful harnessing of the benefits offered "depends on finding solutions to the significant ethical, societal, economic and environmental issues" it generates.

The report highlights the completion of a reformed EU regulatory framework for genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and emphasises the requirement for EU Member States to implement and apply this GMO legislation. Financial support for research in life sciences and biotechnology, in the form of the EU 6th Framework Programme for Research, has reportedly increased by 20 per cent compared with the previous Framework Programme. More than €810 million was allocated in the first year of this programme to projects in a range of areas including "life sciences, genomics and biotechnology for health".

The report also outlines future plans and considers newly emerging, but potentially controversial issues such as genetic testing. The importance of a coherent programme of implementation across Member States is emphasised, and a more concerted effort between the Commission, Member States and the private sector is called for.

Article courtesy of the Public Health Genetics Unit .