Policy

The Academy’s policy work addresses issues of medical science and healthcare in their wide scientific and societal context. Areas of policy work originate from within the Academy Council and wider Fellowship, as well as in response to consultations from Government, Parliament and other relevant bodies.

Policy is developed by working groups of Academy Fellows, in addition to external experts and stakeholders as appropriate. Policy projects can also involve collaboration with other UK and international bodies (e.g. charities, research funders, industry). Wide consultation, comprehensive analysis of the evidence and robust peer review ensure the independence and authority of the Academy’s policy work. All policy statements are endorsed by the Academy Council.


Policy highlights

MPs and peers show support for UK medical research
The Academy, Wellcome Trust, MRC, AMRC and CRUK hosted the All Party Parliamentary Group on Medical Research summer reception at Westminster, at which MPs and peers demonstrated their support for UK medical research.

Academy review of UK medical research regulation and governance
The Academy continues its review of medical research regulation and governance and, following the Government's review of arm's-length bodies, has opened a second call for evidence. Submissions received before Tuesday 31 August will be considered by the working group. The final deadline is Tuesday 14 September.

Exploring the boundaries: taking questions nationwide
The current Academy study on animals containing human material includes a programme of public dialogue led by Ipsos MORI. The public's views are being sought this month through a nationwide omnibus survey.