Health Dept played down BSE threat
22 July 1999
Health Dept ‘played down BSE threat’
THE Department of Health failed to inform the UK pharmaceutical industry about senior scientists concerns that vaccines might transmit BSE to humans, it was claimed yesterday (Wednesday).
Sir Richard Southwood, who chaired the committee investigating the causes of BSE, admitted the possible threat was played down in a report which stated the risks “appeared remote”.
The committee feared a stronger warning might cause unnecessary deaths by creating widespread public alarm and causing people to reject established vaccination programmes.
- Thatcher reluctant to act over BSE, FWi, 20 July, 1999
- BSE Inquiry set to criticise ex-minister, FWi, 23 June, 1999
- Financial Times 22/07/99 page 8
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