Government hardens position on embryo bill moderating amendments rejected

Government hardens position on embryo bill - moderating amendments rejected London, 19th May 2008 - Tonight's rejection by the House of Commons of amendments seeking to curb the expansion of embryo research law reflected the government's resolve to allow new abuses of human embryos and human reproduction.

The result means that ethically-conscious MPs must now throw out the government's embryo bill, says the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC).

The House of Commons voted earlier this evening against amendments to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill which sought to prevent or otherwise limit the creation of human-animal hybrid embryos and 'saviour siblings'.

Anthony Ozimic, SPUC political secretary, commented: "The HFE bill seeks to implement a string of changes that will mean more embryos will be generated but given less respect and protection than ever. Those MPs who until now have been unsure whether or not to vote against the bill must now realise that the bill cannot be made less unethical. The only option for MPs who are concerned about the protection of human life and dignity is to take decisive action to scupper the bill. For the sake of future generations MPs must stand up against this government's abhorrent legislation."

Tomorrow the Commons will debate whether children conceived by IVF should be entitled to have their need for a father considered, and abortion amendments.

Further amendments will be debated in a public bill committee.