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London mayor Ken Livingstone is calling for views on a consultation document issued with the Greater London Alcohol and Drug Alliance suggesting ways to reduce the harm caused by alcohol in the capital.

• www.london.gov.uk

Scientists were delighted by the unexpected attendance of environment minister Michael Meacher at the recent launch in London of their Independent Science Panel. They say they have set up the ISP to counter a concerted campaign by the government and the scientific establishment to promote genetic modification under the guise of ‘sound’ science.

Mr Meacher welcomed the ISP’s input into the national GM debate and said the GM Science Review would not make its final report until after the public debate.

• www.i-sis.org.uk

Hospices are facing a crisis in funding, according to a survey of 201 hospices and palliative care units published by Liberal Democrat MP Paul Burstow.

More than a quarter reported having to close beds in the last two years, while some closed altogether. On average the hospices receive a third of their funding from the NHS, while some rely entirely on lottery money or private fundraising.

Following a vote by the House of Lords to delay the Community Care (delayed discharges) Bill, it has now completed its progress through parliament and received royal assent.

The Act introduces fines for councils that delay patients’ hospital discharge because home care arrangements are not in place, and removes their ability to charge for community equipment and intermediate care. The new duties relating to patient discharge will start in October, but fines will not be levied until January 2004.