Opportunities And Safeguards - Sir Leszek Backs The Human Fertilisation And Embryology Bill

Main Category: Fertility
Article Date: 01 Apr 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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There's been a heated response to plans to update the 1990 Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act which governs all aspects of the artificial creation of embryos for fertility treatment and their use in research.

As the debate unfolds in the media, MRC Chief Executive Sir Leszek Borysiewicz, speaks out and expresses his support for the Bill. He also reveals how he reconciles his support for embryonic stem cell research with his Catholic faith.

Sir Leszek said: "It's an important piece of legislation because at the same time as it provides the opportunity for scientists to push forward the boundaries of what we can do and understand in terms of major disease. It also provides the inherent safeguards to prevent some of the more exaggerated claims about what would be possible under this legislation."

To listen to the podcast interview with Sir Leszek, please click here.
For the MRC's briefing to MPs on the bill, please click here.
For the MRC's latest publication on stem cell research, please click here.

Medical Research Council