§ The Countess of Marasked Her Majesty's Government:
When they will publish the terms of reference and timetable for the Medical Research Council to produce its broad strategy for advancing biomedical and health services research on chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis following the Government's statement on 11 January; and [HL4020]
When they expect the Medical Research Council to be in a position to call for research proposals based upon the recommendations of the independent working group's report to the Chief Medical Officer on chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis. [HL4021]
§ Lord Hunt of Kings HeathThe Department of Health has asked the Medical Research Council (MRC) to develop a broad strategy for advancing biomedical and health services research on chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)/ME. The MRC is currently setting up an Independent Scientific Advisory Group to develop that strategy. The terms of reference and timetable will be published on the MRC's website as soon as the group has agreed them. The MRC takes its responsibility in this matter very seriously and will ensure that progress is made as quickly as possible without jeopardising the integrity of the process.
It would be inappropriate at this stage to give a timescale for a call for research proposals or to anticipate any other possible recommendations of the independent advisory group.
However, the MRC always welcomes high quality applications from the scientific community for support into any aspect of biomedical research and these are judged in open competition with other demands on funding. When appropriate, high quality research in the areas MRC is promoting may be given priority in competition for funds, but research excellence and importance to health will continue to be the primary considerations in funding decisions.