Evidence-gathering meetings

The Working Party on emerging biotechnologies held a number of evidence-gathering meetings between May and July 2011 to inform its deliberations.

Research and development

During the first meeting, experts in synthetic biology, tissue engineering, biochemistry, cloning, gene therapy and deep brain stimulation shared their views on a range of issues, including the concept of emerging biotechnology, timelines for the delivery of applications of emerging biotechnology and regulatory systems.

Public engagement

This meeting was attended by academics and representatives from a number of organisations specialising in public engagement, including charities and government bodies. The meeting focused on the purpose of public engagement, how public engagement can and should be performed, and the benefits of public engagement.

Intellectual property, innovation and markets

This meeting aimed to gain insight into the economic and regulatory conditions that affect the development, innovation and application of emerging biotechnologies.

Policy, regulation and governance

A range of individuals from government departments, regulatory and professional bodies were invited to this meeting to discuss the regulatory and policy conditions that apply to emerging biotechnologies.

The Working Party is continuing with its investigations and will publish a report with recommendations in autumn 2012.