Source · Select Committees · Science, Innovation and Technology Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Deferred
Paragraph: 95
Although there is potential for the results of a genomic test to be upsetting, this...
Recommendation
Although there is potential for the results of a genomic test to be upsetting, this is not a sufficient reason to prevent consenting adults from using these tests. However, a range of submissions to our inquiry and our predecessor Committee’s inquiry highlighted a potential need for restrictions on direct-to-consumer genomic testing of children. Professional bodies in the UK and internationally have recommended that genomic tests are not provided directly to consumers for the testing of asymptomatic children for adult-onset conditions for which no intervention can be made during childhood. The Government should consider which, if any, genomic tests for asymptomatic children should be able to be provided directly to consumers, including whether there should be a ban on the provision of genomic tests for use on children that do not meet the criteria of the UK National Screening Committee.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government explains the MHRA's current regulatory powers are limited to compliance or safety issues, not the broader scope of the recommendation. It commits to encouraging and facilitating future discussions between the UK National Screening Committee and MHRA to advise on policy relating to this recommendation.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
95