The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, which was due to rule on the licensing of human-animal hybrid embryos on 10th January, has deferred its decision until the autumn. The implanting of human–animal embryos into the womb is currently against UK law. A white paper reviewing fertility laws, published in December 2006, looks to ban completely any research concerning human–animal embryos, however this will not become law for some time, if ever.

In this highly charged ethical debate, accusations abound that pressure from religious groups is prompting a knee–jerk reaction from the Government to restrict the HFEA. It is claimed that this research may have consequences for the treatment of neural degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Edward Andrews, Medical Student, Southampton University