Europe lifts patent embargo on transgenic plants and animals...

Article Abstract:

The top appeals board of the European Patent Office (EPO) ruled in Dec 1999 that the exclusion of plant varieties should be interpreted in a narrow way, not used to prevent the granting of patents for all plants produced by new, and therefore patentable, biotechnological processes. This ruling aligns the implementation of the European Patent Convention with recent changes to the European Union directive on patenting biotechnological processes. The EPO has now started to process around 1,2000 applications for patents on genetically altered animals and plants.

Intellectual property, Genetically modified animals, Genetically modified plants, European Patent Office

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UK government backs change in law over stem-cell research ... but Germany remains unmoved

Article Abstract:

Issues are presented concerning the differing policies of the governments of the United Kingdom and Germany to the use of adult stem-cells and embryonic stem-cells for medical research purposes.

United Kingdom, Social policy, Ethical aspects, Medical research, Stem cells

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German budget cuts cast chill wind over outlook for international labs

Article Abstract:

The German government's decision to cut subscriptions to five international research organizations is driven by funding problems and could initiate a similar move throughout Europe. Such drastic cuts in public spending are aimed at increasing the efficient use of research funds. The move calls for a thorough re-appraisal of the funding criteria of international basic science facilities. It seeks alternative solutions to the growing funding problems faced by most European governments.

Management, Research, Science and technology policy, Research grants, Research funding

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