|
News - Announcements November 2003 EU Parliament Says Yes to Embryo Cell Research (19.11.2003) The European Parliament voted Wednesday to fund research using stem cells taken from human embryos, a controversial procedure opposed by anti-abortion activists. Europe: No Conclusion In Sight on Embryonic Stem Cell Research Debate The inter-institutional debate on whether the EU should fund embryonic stem cell research, and if so under which conditions, looks unlikely to be resolved swiftly, according to key figures close to the discussions. A roundtable debate on the question took place in Brussels on 11 November, bringing together EU policy makers at the centre of the discussions, as well as leading stem cell researchers who presented the latest scientific perspectives. EU funding of stem-cell research to be allowed under strict conditions In a highly charged and emotional vote today, the Industry Committee voted by 28 votes to 22 with 2 abstentions in favour of amending a Commission proposal on a set of strict ethical guidelines for deciding on and monitoring EU funding of research involving the derivation of embryonic stem cells from human supernumerary embryos. Agreement closer on human tissues and cells The Environment Committee adopted on Tuesday a second-reading report by Peter LIESE (EPP-ED, D) on quality and safety standards for human tissues and cells. |