Commission's chief scientific advisors present advice on regulation of #GeneEditing

The European Commission's Scientific Advice Mechanism (SAM) Group of Chief Scientific Advisors has published a statement providing "scientific perspective on the regulatory status of products derived from gene editing, and the implications for the GMO Directive'".

The advisors recommend that the GMO Directive should be revised to reflect current knowledge and scientific evidence, and as part of a broad dialogue with relevant stakeholders and the public at large.

Research, Science and Innovation Commissioner Carlos Moedas said: "Gene-editing is a critical technology with an enormous potential to improve human health and preserve the environment. I therefore welcome the statement from our Chief Scientific Advisors which will contribute to a well-informed debate on the regulatory framework needed to maintain high levels of protection while enabling innovations that contribute to the environment and wellbeing. Their statement also provides a valuable input into our reflections on future proofing regulation so that our laws can keep up with our labs."

Health and Food Safety Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis said: "The EU is a champion of the highest standards of food safety. As a scientist myself, I see great merit in keeping pace with innovations so that society can benefit from new science and technology. To make the best out of such developments, I encourage a broad reflection and discussion on how we, as a society, want to go forward with such issues as gene editing.”

The Scientific Advice Mechanism was established in October 2015 to support the Commission with high quality, timely and independent scientific advice for its policy-making activities.

More information is available here.

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