Flu

MPs on the Science and Technology Select Committee have accused, according to the BMJ, the MRC of panicking about bird flu. Read more at http://bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/331/7529/1358-a?etoc . The Lancet's take on this meeting is that the Committee showed a lack of knowledge of the workings of the MRC, and asked questions about things that are outside the remit of the MRC. Read an editorial (you will need a password which is on the Library webpages, and also available from me).

The Guardian has reported concerns over food shortages in the event of a pandemic, if delivery drivers are struck down en masse, and also reports the foundation of a new cabinet committee to be chaired by Patricia Hewitt. Read more at http://www.guardian.co.uk/medicine/story/0,11381,1668729,00.html