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Genetics
Information about genetics, embryology and assisted conception in the NHS.
Government response to the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee Inquiry into Genomic Medicine
Published: 14 December 2009
This document sets out the Government’s response to the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee report on Genomic Medicine
Review of the Human Genetics Commission
Published: 9 May 2008
The Human Genetics Commission underwent an independent "light touch" review in 2007-2008.
Genetics White Paper Review 2008
Published: 16/04/2008
Following the publication of the genetics White Paper, a review has been undertaken on the progress made to date.
Our inheritance, our future: realising the potential of genetics in the NHS
Published: 23/06/2003
The White Paper set out a vision of how genetic techniques could benefit patients, and a £50m three-year plan of implementation.
Genetics Commissioning Advisory Group (GenCAG)
UKGTN Steering Group
This is a sub group of GenCAG and their minutes and other details are available at:
Good practice guide on paternity testing services - stakeholder consultation
A consultation was launched on 4 February 2008 seeking views from stakeholders on a revised edition of the Code of Practice and Guidance on Genetic Paternity Testing Services (March 2001), which is being amended to reflect law changes since 2001.
The deadline for replies is 5 May 2008.
GMP gene therapy vector production
The Vector Directory
Published: 30/10/2007
The Vector Directory details UK, EU and US suppliers of the vectors commonly used in gene therapy, and gives guidance to researchers seeking to have vectors manufactured for clinical trials. It is intended to help researchers bring the advances in genetics more quickly to the patient's bedside.
National Genetics Education and Development Centre
The National Genetics Education and Development Centre is a key development from the Genetics White Paper. It provides a focal point for genetics education and training in the NHS.
Genetics associated publications
Key DH-published documents examining issues, applications and advances in genetics.
GPs with a Special Interest in Genetics
Published: 14/03/2005
The genetics White Paper announced that start-up funding would be available for up to ten GPs with a special interest in genetics. The ten PCTs that successfully applied for funding were formally announced on 14 March 2005. These part time posts will be funded for three years.
Service Development Initiatives
Up to £4m of revenue funds were made available during 2004-5 and 2005-6 for service development initiatives; the successful bids were announced on 4 May 2004.
Additional links
Human Genetics Commission (HGC)
The HGC is the Government's advisory body on how new developments in human genetics will impact on people and on health care. It advises ministers on all aspects of human genetics including social and ethical concerns.
Gene Therapy Advisory Committee (GTAC)
Advises on the acceptability of proposals for gene therapy research on human subjects, on ethical grounds, taking account of the scientific merits of the proposals and the potential benefits and risks.
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