Scientists in Europe have been expressing relief this week at the news that the European Union is dropping rules on the levels of radiation medical staff can be exposed to.

The EU physical agents directive had triggered consternation a couple of years ago, with researchersworried it would be impossible to do certain kinds of studies and keep within the prescribed limits.

The rules were due to come into force by next year. But now, after some serious lobbying coordinated by the group Sense about Science, the EU has decided to delay the introduction of the laws for 4 years while they are revised.