Initial Shaping of Genetic Engineering Rules (1982–1986)

Abstract

The chapter provides a brief historical account of the drafting of regulatory instruments on genetic engineering. The chapter examines the Commission’s initial efforts to shape a coherent legislative control framework on genetic engineering despite the friction between the field’s multi-sectoral character and the particular functional, vertical specialisation of the Commission’s composite organisational units (Directorates General). Further, the chapter finds evidence of the ad hoc character of the Commission’s rule-shaping settings in the field of genetic engineering. It examines the efforts of DG Research and DG Industry to become engaged in the formulation of legislative measures for the protection of the health of biotechnology workers, while also strengthening the competitiveness of European bioindustries. Moreover, the chapter analyses the failure of the operation of inter-service coordination mechanisms to provide the necessary incentive/constraint structures to ensure cooperation among the DGs and to lead to a sustainable political compromise within the Commission.