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 05 September 2008 11:13 BST

Scientists discouraged from embryo protest

Saturday, 10 May 2008 10:37
Proponents of hybrid embryos say they are crucial for research
Scientists have been discouraged from lobbying politicians over elements of the human embryology and fertilisation bill, it has emerged today.

The proposed legislation includes a number of controversial plans, including the creation of hybrid embryos from animal eggs and human DNA for research.

With people opposed to the bill lobbying politicians, key scientists had been invited to put their case to MPs and show their support at parliament.

But the BBC says it has seen documents from the Medical Research Council (MRC) which discourages scientists from taking part over fears it could be "counter-productive".

Tony Peatfield, head of policy at the MRC, has written to the heads of four of its institutes asking them to tell staff the MRC cannot support researchers involved in lobbying, according to the BBC.

He claims the presence of scientists outside parliament might "actually be counter-productive to the research that [the MRC] would like to see progress".

The MRC advice may not be well received by scientists, with stem cell researcher Dr Stephen Minger saying he "failed to understand the MRC's view".

"By giving our support to the bill we are showing MPs that there is another point of view," he said.

"And it was lobbying by scientists in the first place that meant that the government was able to understand why the creation of hybrid embryos was necessary."

In a statement today the MRC said it regularly works with parliament to help inform policy on medical research and has had "very constructive discussions with government and parliamentarians" in relation to the human fertilisation and embryology bill.

"In common with all organisations receiving public money, the MRC has a responsibility to ensure that it uses the most appropriate methods to communicate its policy," the statement added.

"It is not appropriate for the MRC to undertake lobbying activities such as public demonstrations or protests.

"If scientists supported by the MRC wish to become involved in lobbying in a personal capacity, for example by demonstrating outside parliament, they are free to do so but we require them to make clear that this is in a personal capacity and not on behalf of the MRC."
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