Could the 100,000 genomes project be jeopardised by underfunding and lack of public understanding?
A House of Commons Science and Technology Committee report says that for the 100,000 genomes project to succeed the government must continue to increase funding in digital infrastructure, ensure the public are informed of the treatments and opportunities that genomics present, and provide sufficient training for NHS staff.
The report recommended that Genomics England should seek to maximise the commercial value of its datasets and continue to provide industrial and academic access to these data to facilitate the growth of the UK genomics industry.
The committee also welcomed the life sciences sector deal that sets out a range of measures to support genomics in the UK, including whole genome sequencing of the UK Biobank and an extension of the cancer branch of the project.
Further information
BMJ: NHS risks missing out on benefits of genomics, MPs warn
BMJ: The 100 000 genomes project: bringing whole genome sequencing to the NHS
Science and Technology Committee (Commons): Genomics and genome editing in the NHS inquiry