News,

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority is facing criticism over a decision to allow embryos to be screened for inherited bowel cancer, The Times of London reports. The decision was made by five unidentified individuals without a public or parliamentary consultation. Ian Gibson, Labour chairman of the parliamentary Science and Technology Committee, said: "They should at least have discussed this with the select committee." The committee is expected to demand an explanation from Suzi Leather, the HFEA's director. [The Times of London, 2 November]

The acting Australian Prime Minister has argued in favour of a national debate on abortion, The Australian reports. John Anderson said that there were no plans for a policy change on abortion and that any change in the law would have to reflect public views. [The Australian, 2 November]

The euthanasia campaigner who claims to have killed 130 people through assisted suicide has had his request for a new trial rejected, Lifenews.com reports. Jack Kevorkian was convicted in 1999 of killing Thomas Youk who had Lou Gehrig's disease, after his death was screened on the television show 60 Minutes. Mr Kevorkian was sentenced to 10-25 years imprisonment. Mayer Morganroth his attorney has said that he will appeal to Jennifer Granholm the Michigan Governor to commute the sentence. [Lifenews.com, 1 November]

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