MP Briefings
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GeneWatch UK comments on the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill: serious implications for public trust in the use of genetic data
20th November 2023 -
GeneWatch UK: The Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill: Briefing for Committee Stage
28th June 2022 -
14th November 2017 -
2nd December 2015 -
28th November 2011 -
6th October 2011 -
GeneWatch Parliamentary Briefing: Protection of Freedoms Bill
25th February 2011 -
15th January 2010 -
GeneWatch UK Parliamentary Briefing: Crime and Security Bill
15th January 2010 -
26th January 2009 -
31st May 2007 -
Briefing note for MPs, MSPs, AMs & MLAs. DNA: proposed expansions of powers
25th March 2007 -
23rd February 2007 -
MPs' Briefing: Human Genetics No.7 - The National DNA Database: an update
25th January 2007A further update on the police DNA Database
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11th December 2006Explains UK Government's plants for environmental liability for GMOs and improvements required.
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1st January 2005Using DNA to trace people who are suspected of committing a crime is one of the biggest advances in tackling crime since fingerprinting. When DNA profiling is used wisely it can bring major benefits to society by helping to convict serious criminals including murderers and rapists. Concerns arise, however, when tissue samples, genetic information and personal data are stored indefinitely on a DNA database, like the police forensic database - known as the National DNA Database (NDNAD). There are fears that this information may be misused in ways that threaten the rights of individuals and their families.
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31st August 2004Drug companies are seeking to use genetic tests to define 'at risk' groups who would be advised to take (their) medication to prevent a predicted future illness. This approach would be hugely profitable for the pharmaceutical industry, but does not have a good scientific foundation. Many people could take medicine unnecessarily, and some could suffer side-effects. Public health approaches to tacking problems such as obesity and smoking could also be undermined.
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1st November 2002The Government is backing a controversial new genetic research project called 'Biobank UK'. The project aims to identify the links between genetic and environmental factors in common diseases by studying DNA samples taken from 500,000 45 to 69 year olds. Each person's genetic information will be linked with their lifestyle and medical data.
However, Biobank UK's aims are controversial, its science is questionable, and there is a lack of legal safeguards to protect those agreeing to take part from misuse of their genetic information.
GeneWatch believes that the project should be shelved until the controversies surrounding it have been fully debated and resolved and alternative approaches have been properly assessed.
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31st March 2002Human genetic tests are now being sold directly to the public in the High Street and on the Internet. Genetic testing is unregulated and vulnerable customers are being misled. Current knowledge of genetics and health is too uncertain and complex to be left to commercial interests.
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30th September 2001Genetic tests are becoming available to detect genes associated with disease. These tests may help diagnose an illness in some patients so it can be treated or predict a possible future illness in others or their children.
However, genetic test information could be abused and lead to genetic discrimination if used as grounds for refusing insurance cover or employment.