Terms of Reference and Code of Practice

The overall purpose of the GACS is to support the Agency’s Chief Scientist by providing independent challenge and advice to the Chief Scientist and the Agency Board on the Agency’s governance and use of science. It will carry out the following tasks:

Providing independent challenge and advice

• on how the Agency obtains and uses independent scientific advice including through the Scientific Advisory Committees that advise the Agency¹
• on the Agency’s science governance processes
• on the Agency’s Science Strategy and its implementation and periodic review

Advising on general and strategic science and research issues

• Undertaking strategic horizon scanning, co-ordinating and building on the work already carried out by the individual SACs
• Advising on whether the Agency’s science and research is aligned with the Agency’s overall scientific and strategic aims, including advice on science prioritisation
• Providing a forum to discuss issues which cut across the remit of more than one committee and hence formalise interactions between the SACs
• Advising on issues that are not covered by an existing SAC or which relate to general principles
• Advising on any other matters relating to research, surveys or science policy remitted to the Committee by the Agency’s Board or Chief Scientist

Developing good practice and fit-for-purpose science processes

• Identifying and developing good practice for all of the SACs and encouraging and monitoring its application¹
• Building links with others working on the use and governance of science, to identify, develop and share good practice

The Committee may also suggest relevant issues for discussion.

¹The GACS does not have a role in approving the work of the other SACs. It will consider whether the SACs are adhering to the Good Practice Guidelines and other elements of good practice and governance in carrying out their work

In line with the central government guidance and the Food Standards Agency policy, each independent advisory committee that advises the Agency operates to a published Code of Practice that sets out the key principles and procedures that govern the work of the Committee.

The Code of Practice for the GACS is subject to periodic review by the Committee in light of experience with its use and any new or updated guidance from central Government or from the Agency.

A copy of the code of practice can be found in the link below: