Embryo breakthrough

Scientists have created hybrid embryos from humans and animals for the first time in the UK.

The breakthrough came as MPs prepare to debate the ethics of controversial research.

Scientists at Newcastle University created embryos by implanting DNA from human skin cells into eggs taken from cows' ovaries with virtually all their genetic material removed.

The university says the research may lead to new therapies for conditions like Parkinson's Disease and strokes.

Professor John Burn, Head of the university's Institute of Human Genetics, said the research was licensed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority.

He said: "Human eggs are very precious and the idea came forward that you could get around the shortage by using cows eggs instead," he said.

"Now, it is illegal and unsafe to put these cells into a human being, but they are very useful for research purposes.

He added: "If you examine it closely it does not really create any new ethical problems.

"It is not and never will be about creating monsters. These cells cannot be used directly for treatment."

The Government's proposed Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill, which regulates this kind of research, prompted attacks from church leaders.

The leader of Scottish Roman Catholics, Cardinal Keith O'Brien, called the legislation a "monstrous attack on human rights, human dignity and human life".

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said last week that MPs would be given a free vote on the issue when the bill is debated next month.

Labour MP Jim Dobbin, chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Pro Life Group, said scientists had "ignored parliamentary process" by conducting the work before the Bill was passed, adding: "They have virtually made Parliament redundant and the Government look ludicrous."

Anthony Ozimic, of The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, called the research "disastrous".

He added: "The deliberate blurring of the boundaries between humans and other species is wrong and strikes at the heart of what makes us human."

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