In the context in which Richard saw them applied in the programme he would regard them as being unlawful if used in this country. Government money should be spent on the vital research needed to answer the questions raised about MMR and autism, not advertising. The NAS is aware that there have been a number of high quality research proposals which have been submitted to the various research funding bodies, including the MRC, and have been turned down. There is no doubt that public confidence in MMR is falling. Advertising campaigns do not provide answers.
Proper research does.
The Government should think again about its priorities. Also in the meantime to provide an alternative to the triple vaccine for those parents who want their children immunised, but will not trust the MMR vaccine. The NAS is supportive of the immunisation programme and is concerned that this may be jeopardised if parents are given no alternative to the MMR and vaccination levels continue to fall. With proper Government intervention now this can be avoided and public trust restored. Through a glass darkly.