(previously published) Director of MHRA confirms that Bob Fiddaman introduced Scientology journalist Janne Larsson into the PPE consultation process

From: Gregor, Simon


Date: 18/05/2009 14:07:37

To: Jeremy Bryce

Subject: RE: re - Janne Larsson





Dear Mr Bryce



Thank you for your email.



The MHRA has recently published a patient and public engagement strategy, and as part of this we are taking steps to engage more with patients and consumers who have an interest in our work. You can find the strategy on our website at http://www.mhra.gov.uk/home/groups/comms-sp/documents/publication/con041519.pdf.



I and some of my colleagues are, as part of this initiative, making some initial contacts with a number of organisations and individuals who have an interest in what we do, and it is in that context that I met with Mr Fiddaman. The purpose of these meetings is to discuss our patient and public engagement strategy, get views on it and in particular on any challenges we may face. As part of my discussion with Mr Fiddaman, he did indeed suggest a number of individuals with whom I might meet (including Mr Larsson), and I agreed to open up a dialogue with them if they were also willing to do so. The MHRA is aiming to open up similar interactions with other individuals and patient groups as well, outside the field of SSRIs.



In terms of timing, this is a medium-long term strategy - you will see that the current document covers a two-year time span, and our aim is to publish a second strategy following on from that. Meetings will therefore take place over a period of time, and as yet I do not have dates or details for any of the meetings which Mr Fiddaman suggested.



As far as the scientology issue is concerned, I did not enquire as to the religious background of any of those people whom Mr Fiddaman suggested. The MHRA has no policy in this area. We will engage with individual stakeholders regardless of religious interest, expressed or otherwise.



I hope this answers your questions. On a more general note, I know that you are someone who has from time-to-time had contact with the Agency, and you may well have views yourself on the challenges for us in engaging with patients and the public. If, having read the strategy, there are any matters you would like to discuss with me, please let me know, and I would be happy to talk to you about them.



Best wishes



Simon

Simon Gregor

Director of Communications, MHRA

Tel 020 7084 3540