Fombonne known conflicts

Conflict of interest fear over study of autism

Dr Peter Dukes, of the council, said: "Quite rightly, parents involved in our review have asked us to explain how come we have scientists involved in the class action."

Four members are linked in some way to the legal action - Dr Eric Fombonne, of the Institute of Psychiatry; Prof Ian Sanderson, of St Barts Hospital; Prof Bert Rima, of Queens University Belfast; and Rosemary Kessick, a lay member.

Cash fury over jab experts

One of those involved, Professor Eric Fombonne, is a consultant for Aventis Pasteur in its legal fight against autistic children's families. Also involved were Professor Bert Rima, from Queen's University, Belfast, who is working for Merck and Co, and Professor Ian Sanderson, from Queen Mary's University of London, who is carrying out work for Aventis Pasteur.