Regulation of Agrobacterium Gene Manipulation

The regulation of biotechnology within the member states of the European Community has developed very significantly over the last 3 yr, and a comprehensive body of legislation, guidance notes, and codes of practice have appeared in the United Kingdom in particular. The recent incident at Birmingham University, where UK Health and Safety Executive inspectors halted work on a genetic manipulation project, highlights the need for scientists to be aware of legislation, to understand its implications, and to comply adequately with its requirements.