One of the real pleasures of my job is signing off my annual report, and the fifth report is now available. A pleasure because it gives me the chance to demonstrate the commitment of the FSA to science and evidence, and to thank all those who contributed in many different ways. We’ve got a great team of scientists in the Agency (it’s a good career move if you are a budding young scientist) but we are also fortunate in being able to draw upon the expertise of those working at the laboratory bench in universities and research institutes up and down the country, as well as those who give up their time to sit on our expert advisory committees. Your contributions to improving the safety of food and improving public health is acknowledged and appreciated.
Please do have a look and let me know what you think. You might not agree with everything we do, but in the true spirit of science we positively welcome debate and challenge. It is important to use scientific method, not only to understand and reduce risks, but also to evaluate the impact of our policies and advice. Making sure we spend scarce resources on things that will make a difference is critical. That is why I am convinced, for example, that focusing on reducing campylobacter in chicken will bring about real and measurable improvements in public health, whereas controls on bisphenol A in plastic are unlikely to have much benefit.
The Agency continues to make good progress on developing new research partnerships. Building upon the collaborative research work that we are already funding with the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council on campylobacter, and with the Economic and Social Research Council on consumer attitudes and behaviours, we recently announced a joint call with the Medical Research Council for research to help improve understanding of the biological mechanisms that cause food allergies.
I think a long-term investment strategy for science is important for the UK's future. We need to have a better understanding about what sort of policies will have an effect on how people behave. And the best way to do this is through research, proper evaluation of policies, and the provision of well-informed and independent scientific advice. I look forward to working with our science advisers, partners and stakeholders, and colleagues across the Agency during the coming year.