March 22, 2008

scientists comment further on Catholic Church’s attack on embryo research

Sir Leszek Borysiewicz, Chief Executive of the Medical Research Council, said:

“The Human Fertilisation and Embriology Bill is a much needed review of the legislation governing this area of research in light of the progress made in the 18 years since the original act. It will help the UK maintain its excellent regulatory framework governing cutting-edge research; research which will help us find the treatments of tomorrow. Although the Medical Research Council recognises that many different avenues should be pursued in stem cell research, so-called ‘hybrid embryos’ will assist scientists in this area, even those not working on them directly. A recent survey commissioned by the regulating body found that the majority of the public support this research which will help us tackle debilitating and life-threatening diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Motor Neurone Disease.”