Dr Sophie Petit-Zeman, Head of External Relations said:

"The Association of Medical Research Charities is pleased that the HFEA will now consider applications to create hybrid embryos, in which animal eggs will essentially be used as shells to incubate human genetic material for up to 14 days. While we understand and respect the debate surrounding this technology, we have been working to ensure the voices of patients and families who know about the devastating conditions which it could alleviate are heard, alongside those of researchers. Together, they tell us that it is important to explore this avenue.

Wider public opinion on the issue appears much like that surrounding the use of animals in medical research: if the work is set in the context of the potential to reduce suffering, and those deliberating it understand the strict regulations which govern it, they are accepting. Through ongoing provision of accurate information and encouraging sensible dialogue we hope that fears can be allayed, and those fortunate enough to have been spared the sharp end of life-threatening or debilitating disease helped to understand why such research matters so much to patients, families, scientists and doctors."

Contact: Dr Sophie Petit-Zeman, 07799 764475