U.K. Increases Biological Security

The United Kingdom is increasing the number of biological agents that must be secured to ensure they are not used in acts of terrorism, the London Times reported today (see GSN, Nov. 10, 2006).

The government yesterday boosted the number of restricted agents listed in the 2001 Antiterrorism, Crime and Security Act from 47 to 103.  The list includes 45 viruses, 21 bacteria, 2 fungi, 13 toxins and 18 animal pathogens.

Additions are largely related to animal diseases that could severely damage the economy in the event of an intentional outbreak.  Others, such as Rift Valley fever, are animal diseases that can spread to humans, the Times reported.

“The terror threat is always changing and we must adapt to ensure it is combated effectively.  As terrorists look for new ways to endanger live, we have to take action to be one step ahead,” said Tony McNulty, Home Office minister in charge of policing.  “That is why we are extending the list of controlled substances to prevent terrorist groups using chemical or biological materials as terrorist weapons.”

Police will conduct background checks on scientists and others who work with restricted materials at universities, hospitals and pharmaceutical firms.  Government officials will inspect their laboratories.  Regular audits are planned of agent inventories.

It will be up to scientists to prove they have good reason for using the materials in their work, said John Wood, of the National Institute for Biological Standards and Controls.

Eliza Manningham-Buller, head of the British MI5 intelligence service, in November warned that terrorist could use weapons of mass destruction against the United Kingdom.  “We know that the aspiration is there, we know attempts to gather materials are there, we know that attempts to gather technologies are there,” she said (Tendler/McGrory, The Times, Jan. 25).

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