Controversy over imported embryo cells

A UK research team has caused controversy after importing human embryo cells from the US to use in a cancer research project. Under UK law, it is illegal to carry out research on embryos unless it relates to infertility, contraception or serious inherited conditions. Deriving cultured stem cells - cells that can grow into any type of tissue - from embryos is also currently outlawed. But scientists at Sheffield University have exploited a legal loophole, by using cultured embryo stem cells provided by the University of Wisconsin.

'It's rather strange and hypocritical that one could bring in cells to this country, which have been derived from embryos elsewhere, and that seems to be alright' said Professor Peter Andrews, head of the Sheffield group. Professor Andrews wants to use the imported cells to carry out research into early embryo development, in the study of a type of cancer known as a teratoma.

A government spokesman said Professor Andrew's research was not illegal, adding that 'we wouldn't have any stance on it.' The news has angered pro-life groups, who say the law should cover embryo stem cells, as well as embryos. 'The law should be tightened to explicitly ban the cannibalisation of human life for so-called therapeutic purposes' said Peter Garrett of Life.

Scientists waiting to carry out research on embryo stem cells are also eager for the law to be clarified, to allow such work to go ahead. 'The government needs to act now in order to establish guidelines for us scientists out here trying to use this technology' said Clive Svendsen, of Cambridge University.