Bringing together European scientists and other experts in the field of stem cell research with officials of European Institutions and Member States’ Governments, the seminar aimed to help inform the debate about proposed legislation, such as the Tissue Directive (Medicine: standards of quality and safety of human tissues and cells) and guidelines for the future EU funding of stem cell research under FP6, and to allow expert views to be heard.

The current state of stem cell research from the perspectives of science, clinical application, law and ethics was presented by a delegation representing the field from Scotland, Spain and Sweden.

· The objective of European legislation in stem cell research should be to reduce variability across countries and to provide a consistent system of accreditation and licensing. The regulatory framework should be forward looking and enabling.

· The need for a constructive engagement with public opinion; the role of the media across Europe will be important in this. Learn from other debates, e.g. GM crops.

· The role of industry and commercial ownership of stem cell technology, identified as a key area in the future development of the field.