Public engagement is essential

[Leif]

http://www.researchresearch.com/news...lementID=56797

This is what we are talking about, and it is so important; "There is a need for continued engagement between scientists and the public. And the public wants to see effective scrutiny and checks in place"

Public engagement is essential

HFEA chair tells scientists to nurture public support for stem cell research

Public engagement is essential if the UK is to remain a leader in stem cell and embryo research, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority has warned today.

Speaking at the Progress Educational Trust conference on stem cell research in London, Suzi Leather, chair of the HFEA, said that researchers must continue to be engaged with public opinion.

"Public opinion on embryo research is delicately balanced between optimism and fear. The current consensus allows research to progress,” she said. “But the lessons from the public attitude study are clear. Public support exists but it is not unconditional … There is a need for continued engagement between scientists and the public. And the public wants to see effective scrutiny and checks in place.”

Leather presented new figures about public attitudes to stem cell research, which showed 41 per cent of people believe that embryo research is ethical, versus 34 per cent who believe it is unethical. However, 73 per cent of people believe human embryo research can improve the quality of life of future generations with inherited diseases.