The Jennifer Trust for Spinal Muscular Atrophy has warmly welcomed the publication today (17 May) of the draft Human Embryos and Tissues Bill, which reveals that the Government has responded to pressure and is to allow the creation of human animal hybrid embryos for research after all.
Earlier this year the Government proposed a ban on this type of research, despite fears among scientists and health charities that it would hamper medical breakthroughs.
The Jennifer Trust joined many other medical charities and scientists in lobbying the Government to ensure that it changed its mind before the draft Bill was published.
Reacting to the news, Richard Green, Chief Executive of the Jennifer Trust said:
"We appreciate that this is a sensitive issue for many people but believe that stem cell research offers real potential benefit for people affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Therefore the Jennifer Trust is delighted that scientists will have the opportunity to undertake this world leading research for the benefit of people with life threatening and debilitating conditions such as SMA."
For more information, contact:
Richard Green
01789 267520
07960 941070
You can view the draft Human Embryos and Tissues Bill here:
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsLegislation/DH_074718
See also HFEA Website http://www.hfea.gov.uk/cps/rde/xchg/hfea | 
