LONDON, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Tightened security on stocks of viruses and bacteria has been ordered in Britain because of a terrorist threat.
The Times reported Thursday the government order was issued after MI5, the domestic security agency, told the Foreign and Commonwealth Office that al-Qaida was attempting to recruit scientists.
Under government order, laboratories in hospitals, universities. pharmaceutical and other companies must account for, and regularly audit, stocks of viruses and bacteria. Scientists and staff dealing with such agents would also have to be investigated by police.
Government safety inspectors also would check facilities.
Last year the head of MI5 warned that future terror attacks in Britain could include weapons of mass destruction, including biological weapons.
Among the more than 100 visruses and bacteria on the list for securing are polio, tuberculosis, various toxins and animal pathogens. The bacteria that causes E.coli is included.
The list of danger substances drawn up following the Sept. 11. 2001, attacks on the United States was initially about 47. The list will now be 103, the report said.
