Embryology bill defeated
The anti-science brigade was in action at the UKs House of Commons today, trying to ban research involving hybrid embryos. This is viable research, UK scientists have already created and studied a few hybrid embryos. The efforts to kill that research were led by Catholic MPs, acting on the Vatican party line that the soul enters the body at conception and that using such early embryos for research (especially mixing it with animal embryo matter) is unethical. Despite their best efforts, they were routed.
A first bill had been introduced to ban all research on hybrid embryos. It was easily defeated (336-176). A second vote on the same subject, merely limiting the types of hybrids that could be created, was defeated by a smaller margin.
Researchers say hybrid embryos are a very promising avenue for learning about, and finding cures for, various diseases.
Any hybrid embryo is only allowed to develop a few days, it never grows bigger than a pin head. Letting it grow further or inserting it into a womans womb is not allowed.
I'm happy to see scientific research not being further restricted. Well done UK Parliament.
greets,
Peter
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