It was recommended that WHO initiate discussions with other inter- 
national organizations concerning the scientific, ethical, and political 
aspects of genetic engineering and that technical cooperation in this 
field also be developed. It was further recommended that WHO establish 
an Advisory Group for Safety Measures in Microbiology and that four 
international working groups be created to initiate and monitor activi- 
ties in the following areas: safe transfer of infectious material, 
laboratory safety elements, maximum-containment laboratories, and 
development of emergency services. In June 1977 the WHO Advisory Board 
on Medical Research accepted these recommendations. Dr. K. Bogel cur- 
rently heads the Special Programme on Safety Measures in Microbiology. 
WHO is also initiating ethical studies by sponsoring, in Milan in 
March 1978, an international symposium entitled "Genetic Engineering: 
Scientific Developments and Practical Applications." Topics of dis- 
cussion will include: (1) developments and trends in genetic engineering; 
(2) basic technological issues, such as the modification and improvement 
of microorganisms, the preparation of suitable vectors and hosts, and 
modern approaches to gene control; (3) practical applications of re- 
search, especially as related to immunology, pharmacology, agriculture, 
industry, and developing countries; and (4) international cooperation, 
including the diffusion of information, a code of safety practice, 
and training. 
WORLD INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ORGANIZATION (WIPO) 
WIPO is an independent organization whose board of directors 
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