Commentary on Sections Part 3 - Health Schedule 8 – Research ethics committees (RECs): amendments Section 114 – Recognition by the HRA
714.This section makes provision for the HRA, following an application by or on behalf of a group of people, to recognise that group as a REC for the purpose of approving research of a type specified by the HRA in the guidance issued under section 113(1) or for the purpose of approving research where this is required under other legislation.
715.Under subsection (2) the HRA would only be able to recognise a REC if it is satisfied that the REC meets the requirements of the REC policy document published by the HRA under section 112(3), and that there is, or will be, a demand for such a group. Subsection (3) would require the HRA to take into consideration whether the group is already recognised as a REC by, or on behalf of, a devolved authority. Subsection (4) enables the HRA to do anything (including provide financial assistance) to help a group of people who want to be recognised to make an application which is likely to be successful. Therefore, for example the HRA may consider it appropriate to make a meeting room available to a REC in which they can conduct their business.
716.Subsection (5) gives the HRA the power to revoke recognition of a REC where it is satisfied that the recognised REC is not complying with the requirements of the REC policy document published by the HRA under section 112(3). Recognition may also be revoked if the HRA is satisfied that the group is not carrying out its function of assessing the ethical aspects of research, or is not doing so properly, or that the revocation is necessary or desirable for another reason.
717.Any group which was established or recognised by the SpHA Health Research Authority or by the Secretary of State as a REC, and which exists when the new provisions come into force would, under subsection (6), receive automatic recognition by the HRA.