Public Analysts Attend Science in Parliament

Public Analysts from around Scotland attended the latest event of Science in Parliament which was held in "Our Dynamic Earth Centre" in Edinburgh. The President of the Association, Alan Richards also offered support to the event by manning the stand for part of the day. There was tremendous interest in the exhibits displayed which included counterfeit whisky, lorne sausages, food additives and a range of grizzly items alleged to have been found by consumers in food.

Issues were discussed throughout the day with delegates about the adulteration and contamination of foods. Willie Rennie MP visited the stand in the afternoon and took a particular interest in the current problems faced by public analysts over reduced funding by local councils in a time of increased food scares nationally and foods entering the country via internet sales with no border controls. During this year incidents have involved transport of meat and dairy products without refrigeration leading to increased risks of food poisoning. As these foods only go to an individual purchaser they may not always be identified as a problem.

The event was held to draw scientists to the Scottish Parliament location to allow them to debate with MSP's and discuss topical issues of the day including climate changes and how to engage more children to take an interest in science.