The Royal Society says it will consult scientists about a new code proposed by the Government that sets out what they can discuss publicly.

At present, Royal Society members must adhere to a code of ethics, and it is not yet clear whether the new Code of Public Engagement will replace or supplement that.

Scientists have raised concerns it could gag them.

The society and the Government's Chief Science Adviser, Sir Peter Gluckman, have assured them it will not.

The society's president, Sir David Skegg, said he hoped it would allow more scientists to talk publicly about science - especially those who work at Crown Research Institutes.

He said consultation with scientists would begin in July.