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Scientific analysis in policy making - revised guidelines

On 19 October 2005, the Office of Science and Technology (OST) published revised Guidelines on Scientific Analysis in Policy Making. They are a high-level document addressing the way in which government departments obtain and use analysis and advice in policy-making. They also seek to further highlight the need for analysts and policy makers to be explicit about the level of uncertainty surrounding the evidence they intend to present to policy makers.

The new guidelines call for:

• Departments to have horizon scanning procedures in place;
• The evidence used in policy advice to be subject to peer review, or an appropriate quality assurance  process
• A more balanced approach in the use of research methods;
• A greater emphasis on identifying and improving any weaknesses in the evidence base as a general principle; and
• Outlining clear priorities for engaging in public dialogue over science and technology issues.

The revised Guidelines can be viewed on the OST website.