In my investigation into the possibility of the medical community shirking its responsibilities, I came across a 1996 article from the British Medical Journal (BMJ). This publication highlighted the significance of following the principles established in the Nuremberg Code. A downloadable copy of their publication can be found at the end of this article.

The ruling by the Nuremberg war crimes tribunal established ten essential standards that physicians must adhere to when conducting experiments on human subjects, forming a new code that is now recognized globally. This ruling set a precedent for ethical medical conduct in the era of human rights following World War II. Among its stipulations, the document emphasises the necessity of obtaining voluntary informed consent from participants, thereby safeguarding the individual's right to govern their own body. Additionally, the code stipulates that the potential risks of an experiment must be carefully balanced against the anticipated benefits, and it mandates the avoidance of unnecessary pain and suffering. Furthermore, it asserts that medical professionals should refrain from actions that could harm patients. The principles outlined in this code have since been integrated into broader medical ethics guidelines.

Here are the principles in simplistic terms :

1. Voluntary consent from participants is crucial, requiring legal capacity, informed choice, and understanding without coercion.

2. Research should aim for societal benefits that cannot be achieved through other methods, ensuring it is purposeful and not excessive.

3. Studies must be based on prior animal research and a solid understanding of the issue, justifying the experiment's execution.

4. Research should minimize unnecessary physical or psychological distress and harm to participants.

5. No research should proceed if it poses a clear risk of death or serious injury, except when researchers are also participants.

6. Risk levels must not exceed what is warranted by the humanitarian importance of the experiment.
7. Proper preparations and facilities must be in place to protect subjects from any risk of injury, disability, or death.
8. Only qualified individuals should conduct the experiment, demonstrating high skill and diligence throughout.
9. Subjects must have the right to withdraw if they feel unable to continue for physical or mental reasons.
10. The lead scientist must be prepared to stop the experiment if there is reasonable cause to believe it could harm the subject.

It is important to clarify that no one is above the law, and everyone must be held accountable for their actions. To eliminate any uncertainty, I want to emphasise that despite my opposition to capital punishment, I would actively support the administration of justice to ensure that there is no ambiguity should such actions be attempted in the future.

I would encourage you to download and reach Matt Hancock's what's app messages to see his position on this matter.