Jury is still out on Ministerial Code of Practice of Science Advice

9.26.55pm GMT Wed 11th Nov 2009

Reacting to the news that the Home Secretary has referred the question of the academic freedom of independent scientific advisers to the Government Chief Scientific adviser for resolution by Christmas, Dr Evan Harris MP, Lib Dem Science spokesman who has led the parliamentary opposition to the treatment of sacked scientist Prof David Nutt said,

"The commitment given by Alan Johnson to consider the ACMD more carefully marks a start in responding to the outcry from the scientific community and to the resolute stance of the ACMD who have stood up to his bullying and dismissive behaviour. For scientists to have confidence in the Government's approach the Government's Chief Scientist's proposed Code of Practice for Ministers must uphold academic freedom of scientists and guarantee the political independence of these committees."