Our Inheritance, Our Future

The aim of this White Paper is to set out a vision of how patients could benefit in future from advances in genetics, and raise awareness of the potential of genetics in healthcare.

---

the aim of this White Paper is to set out a vision of how patients could benefit in future from advances in genetics, and raise awareness of the potential of genetics in healthcare. It sets out a comprehensive plan for preparing the NHS, including the investment of 50 million pounds of new money over by 2006 to help realize the benefits of genetics in healthcare. The White Paper also sets out the safeguards and controls against inappropriate or unsafe use of developments in genetics. In addition to existing controls on gene therapy and use of genetic test results by insurance companies, the government plans to introduce new legislation to ban DNA theft: it will become an offence to test someone's DNA without their consent except for medical or police purposes. Government also recognizes the importance of openness and public debate, and will continue to be responsive to new developments and shifts in public attitudes.