Comment from Archbishop Peter Smith on HFEA decision on embryos

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“This is the latest in a catalogue of decisions with profound ethical implications made by the HFEA. Not only are there ethical questions which need very wide and searching debate, but also long term risks to be considered.

It is high time we followed the example of many other countries and set up an overarching body for the UK – a National Bio-ethics Commission. A properly constituted independent body could advise Parliament, conduct extensive public consultation and education, and provide a continuing forum for discussion and dialogue about these far reaching ethical issues. Such a body would go a long way to ensuring that we were not then regularly faced with major decisions made without adequate public consultation or debate, and which are fostering a growing public unease.”

For more information, please contact Greg Watts on 020 7901-4803