In the news

The names of the 18 members of the new Human Genetics Commission were announced on 20 December. The HGC is the UK Government's new advisory body on human genetics, subsuming the functions of the Advisory Committee on Genetic Testing, the Human Genetics Advisory Commission and the Advisory Group on Scientific Advances in Genetics. Members of the new Commission include people prominent in the fields of human genetics, general practice, law, bioethics, public understanding of science, psychosocial research, the pharmaceutical industry, science communication, consumer affairs and the disabled community. The Commission is chaired by Baroness Helena Kennedy. The HGC, which will hold its initial meeting in February, has its own website at http://www.hgc.gov.uk. The public are being asked for their opinion both on the workplan of the new Commission and on its logo. To participate in this consultation, go to http://www.hgc.gov.uk/consultation.htm. In addition, a public meeting is to be held in April this year to discuss the role and priorities of the HGC.