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Terms of Reference

In formulating its advice, the Committee will:

• take into account sufficiency of supply, and the need to maintain adequate supplies of blood, cells (including gametes and stem cells), tissues and organs of appropriate quality;
• consider the efficacy of transfusion / transplantation and consider the cost-effectiveness of interventions, including the introduction of new safety measures and/or the reduction, phasing out or withdrawal of current measures;
• interpret and where appropriate, commission risk assessments from a wide range of sources, including DH and Health Protection Agency (HPA) Analysts, UK Blood Services, other advisory committees such as the Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee (SEAC), and independent researchers;
• take full account of scientific uncertainty and assumptions used in reaching conclusions, and clearly convey the nature and extent of such uncertainties with its advice;
• identify where research to reduce uncertainty is most urgently required, and where possible identify specific research needs;
• ensure that the guidance of the committee is consistent with relevant legislation, (including EU Directives on Blood, cells, tissues and organs) in conjunction with the relevant competent authorities; and
• consider the potential impact of its advice on both donors and recipients.