I read the full GAO report this morning. They pulled the report from the GAO website thereafter. The FDA was not apologetic for retaining MNTA scientists. That being said, they did admit that they could have taken steps to reduce perceived "conflicts of interest." A few practical steps have been implemented since October 15th -- more transparency/notice to the public when consultants are retained with potential conflicts of interest, more communication within the agency to assess the "risks", etc... All in all the FDA was a strong advocate of MNTA and did not relent in defending their right to retain whomever they please when it comes to managing public health emergencies.