focus initially on the state of recombinant DNA activities in Japan and 
then review these activities internationally. The ultimate objective 
is to prepare legally binding guidelines on recombinant DNA research 
and development. Since research at academic institutions will be 
controlled by the guidelines formulated by the Science Council, the 
activities of this interagency group will be devoted to extension of 
the guidelines to the industrial sector. 
No experiments taking place in Japan require more than a low level 
of containment. The most advanced work is being conducted by Dr. Matsu- 
bara at the Osaka University Medical School . One pharmaceutical firm 
(the Kyohako Company) has also been identified as conducting very 
preliminary recombinant DNA studies. 
MEXICO 
Preliminary reports suggest that modest recombinant DNA research 
programs are being developed in several medical institutions. The 
Mexican Society of Biochemistry has formed a Commmittee on the Study 
of Recombinant Molecules to ensure that activities proceed under 
appropriate conditions of physical and biological containment. No 
government policy has been established, but it is expected that Mexican 
scientists, many of whom have been trained in the United States, will 
rely upon the U.S. Guidelines. 
NETHERLANDS 
In January 1976 the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences 
created a committee, under the chairmanship of Dr. D. Bottsma, for the 
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