UK Genomics Databases 2023-05-11
2023-05-11
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Liberal Democrat MP is concerned about the potential threats to UK genomics databases from abuse.
What recent discussions has he had with the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology on designating UK genomics databases as critical national infrastructure?
The UK's genomics databases are not designated as critical national infrastructure. However, through our recently published resilience framework, we will work in partnership across all sectors to ensure they are individually resilient and contribute fully to national resilience.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide details on discussions about designating genomics databases as critical national infrastructure.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP references a speech by Secretary of State Blinken outlining the threat posed by abuse of genomics databases. He is concerned about the opening of a new lab by a Chinese genomics company.
He recommends reading Secretary of State Blinken's speech on Tuesday, which outlines threats to security and democracy from abusing genomics databases. When will the government address this threat?
We take these threats seriously and are raising them with the Department of Health and Social Care, which is the lead department for genomics. However, critical national infrastructure designation focuses on keeping essential services running in the UK.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a timeline or specific plan to address the threat from abuse of genomics databases.
Response accuracy