EU directive methodology faces criticism

The Royal Society headquarters in Edinburgh
The Royal Society headquarters in Edinburgh
 

Also In The News

Lebanon 'should reject' UN resolution

The Lebanese parliament's speaker, Nabih Berri, has said that his country should reject the draft resolution currently being prepared by the UN security council.

Mr Berri objects to Israeli soldiers remaining on Lebanese soil
 

Monday, 07, Aug 2006 08:26

Some of the methods used to establish facts which could crucially affect the content of future EU directives are insufficiently scientific, it has been claimed.

The Royal Society, one of Britain's most respected scientific organisations, has today called attention to methodology used in the compilation of a report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) analysing a directive governing animal research.

The Royal Society objects to "internet searches" and "circumstantial anecdotes" being used as supporting evidence and criticises the EFSA for presenting the information as such.

"We are deeply concerned about the evidence cited in such an influential report," said Professor Ole Petersen, vice president of the Royal Society.

"Neither circumstantial evidence, nor unspecified internet searches, should ever be considered as adequate scientific evidence to inform scientific opinion."

The European Commission has been notified of the Royal Society's concerns in a letter sent today by the Society.

"In highlighting our concerns to the European Commission, we are acting on our responsibility as the national academy of science, to ensure that the process of setting scientific opinion, policy and legislation is transparent and based upon strong scientific evidence," Professor Petersen explained.


Grand National runners that meet the requirements in 2011

There are going to be forty Grand National Runners this Saturday all lining up at Aintree and picking the Grand National winner is always a difficult thing to do.

Gold Cup 2011 odds point to Imperial Commander as the winner

The latest Gold Cup Odds are not only important because they represent how much you can win on the race.

Cheltenham Gold Cup runners and best bets

Fourteen runners have been declared for the Cheltenham Gold Cup 2011 and the question on many people's lips will be.

Cheltenham Gold Cup 2011 runners and odds

The Cheltenham Gold Cup Runners have now been confirmed. As long as there are no late withdrawals there will be 14 Cheltenham Gold Cup runners.

Cheltenham Festival stats and tips should mean more winnings and winners

The Cheltenham Festival 2011 gets underway next week and one of the most popular methods of picking Cheltenham Festival winners is not only to follow tips, but also to take notice of important Cheltenham Festival Stats.

Cheltenham Races odds and tips suggest proven Cheltenham form is key

At long last The Cheltenham Festival 2011 is here and whether punters are going to the course or watching it on TV, everyone will be looking for winning tips for Cheltenham.

Cheltenham races odds and tips can help you find 50/1 winner at the festival

The Cheltenham Festival 2011 gets underway on Tuesday. The highlight of Cheltenham Races on the opening day will be the Champion Hurdle and three days of brilliant racing will follow Tuesday's action.



We're mobile!

Get news, sport and entertainment on your mobile. Text inthenews to 84010 or go to http://m.inthenews.co.uk. There is no charge for this service but the SMS will be charged at your standard operator rate.