Bill could allow creation of half man half beast

MP Nadine Dorries, has hit out at Parliament for voting in favour of a Bill backing radical embryo research - warning that loopholes in the proposed legislation could see scientists attempt to create human-animal hybrids.

The Human, Fertilisation and Embryology Bill could see a huge shake-up in British embryology laws and sparked condemnation from many MPs and other pro-life advocates.

In a House of Commons debate the Member of Parliament for mid Bedfordshire said: "I am extremely disappointed that the Government failed to use this opportunity to provide greater clarity as to some of the clauses contained within the Bill.

"The Bill as passed, would allow the insemination of human gametes into an animal - that is, the insemination of human sperm into an animal.

"It is to Parliament's shame that MPs failed to back those amendments which would have prohibited such a practice from taking place.

"As Parliamentarians I believe we have a duty to make sure that scientists operate within strong parameters of the law - but Parliament failed to provide these parameters.

"I believe it is extremely dangerous that confusion over such matters will exist, because of the failure of the Bill to be explicit in banning such practice.

"It is vitally important that a secure ethical framework exists in the field of scientific research and I am very concerned the Bill does not appear to have grasped this."