Independent SAGE replies to The BMJ .

We read The BMJ ’s article on whether the Independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Independent SAGE) has been a success with interest,1 as well as a little irritation, given that it began with a major factual error that set the tone for the remainder of the text (as described in our rapid response).2 We are not “rebel scientists” but internationally recognised academics and health practitioners seeking to communicate science to the public, press, and policy makers. Our main activity is delivering public briefings through live broadcasting and written reports, in which we seek to present often complex information in a timely manner and an easily understandable form. Key to these briefings is expert interpretation of the latest epidemiological data from the government daily dashboard, NHS England, public health bodies from each home nation, NHS Test and Trace, the Office for National Statistics, the REACT study, and other reputable sources, acknowledging the work of those who do so much to curate them. The people responsible for …