cells today, fully developed embryos tomorrow - horrifying as the mixing is, won't this be another step towards a Mengalian utilitarian state where experiments are done on some humans / hybrids for the good of the majority? What about the rights of those being experimented on?

Michael Khajeh-Noori, Jersey, British Isles

For those of you who believe that this stuff is new, you are tremenduously naive. What we hear about is only the tip of the iceberg. Do you really thing that powers that be are revealing everything they know? Of course not. Our governments are probably 20 years or more ahead of what they let on.

Mark, St. John's, Canada

They are planning on replacing the Human race because they need more obedient atificial slaves. This is what Interferring with nature is all about. To create a World where everything is atificial and nothing is natural, genetical modified everything, is this really the future we want, a nightmare

Arthur Guy, Gloucester, England

Well England do as you see fit, but the bed you make, you will have to lay in, alone. And after reading all of these comments, all I can say with true honesty is "Thank God for 1776" !!

Cynthia*, Ohio, USA

The direction of such a therapy is very wrong. Such a research might bring us some good effects, but I believe the negative effects will be huge. Because, scientists neither can control the development of such combined embryos, nor stop some people to create devils. Quite same as neclear weapons.

Cymby, Shanghai, China

This concept is fraught with potential issues. Nevermind that is you are a Christian, there is no arguement. Never mind that we will be opening a Pandora's Box. What will be the "rights" of these mutants be, in courts across the world. My God what are they thinking?

dyann, Mobile, USA

To Jennifer, Salem, USA:

Again, these cells CANNOT be implanted or grown to term, they don't have the ENERGY to replicate for more than a WEEK or so, which is enough for research purposes and better understanding of the way they work. And it allows not to use human embryos.

Tom, London,

Really don't agree with "messing" with nature. The cure to ALL disease are out there in nature, Life and death are natural events and mixing animal cels with human cells is so, so wrong. What new horrible diseases will this create - maybe "I am Legend" is a step closer!!

Jackson, Edinburgh,

Alexis, Michigan, USA
"diseases are natures way of completing the circle of life and death"
And how do automobiles, helicopters, high-school massacres and judicial murder figure in all that. They're pretty effective after all.

Sean, Coventry, UK

If this is allowed to come to pass, it is only a matter of time before someone secretly implants these cybrids into either an animal or human. That is a boundary that we can not cross, and therefore should not allow the production of these cybrid embroys to begin with.

Jennifer, Salem, USA

This is an excellent step forward.

Everyone deserves a healthy life while they're on Earth, and hopefully this will allow scientists to make that true for more people than ever before.

Death is inevitable. Diseases don't have to be. Know the difference!

Mike, Toronto, Canada

Hey... we can have a monkey-man. Jokes aside, the potential is amazing!

For those that want "to die a natural death" or "refuse to play god" that's fine. But at least the rest of us will have a choice! :)

Robert, Durban,

Congratulations! Creating life in order to destroy it and oh happy days! your taxes will pay for it! All on the dubious promise that it MAY cure disease, develop spare body parts or GASP! lead us to the secret of eternal life! How will this profit us if we lose our soul?

Lynn, Lancaster,

I would rather die a natural death than use this kind of technology. Death is natural - it's part of the cycle of life. Do we really want to cling onto life so much that we would resort to this sort of thing just to increase our lives for a few years? It's about quality, not quantity.

Pat, Wellington, New Zealand

I think it's awesome.
I'm all for crazy science like this.

KayleeRay, Houston, TX

This is a wonderful idea to encourage the ongoing persuit of science, which is of course inevitable. Forget the bleeding hearts. They would be the first to condone it if they had the misfortune to be struck by some dreadful disease.

N Perez, Hong Kong,

for all those (predominantly) American believers in "god's natural order" does that mean we do away with incubators for premature babies? That isnt god's order..or what about insulin for diabetics, that used to come from pigs.
But I forget 60pct of Americans think the world is 5000 years old!

Peter Gibbinson, Dubai, UAE

Creating hybrid humans for experimentation for cures could also unleash uncurable hybrid diseases that easily cross from human to animal and vice versa. Stop playing God and study what's readily available in our rain forests for cures.

Bajan, Christiansted, USVI

I am an American, I believe in science, evolution and I support many of the scientific discoveries that have been made over the years, especially treatment for diseases . However, I can't help but to question the ethical nature of this proposal and if we're about to open a "Pandora's Box"?

Angie, Austin, TX, USA

What's the big deal? Arabs been breeding with humans for years.

D. Carver, Atlantic City, USA

Creating life in order to destroy it and Oh happy days! tax payer funded! For what cause? The dubious promise that it MAY lead to a cure for certain diseases and ailments, grow spare body parts or GASP! lead to the secret of life? What will it profit us if we lose our souls?

Lynn, Melbourne, USA

It’s unbelievable that there is next to no reporting in the media about the agricultural amnesty amendment that has been added on to the Supplemental Funding Bill for Iraq. If you oppose this surreptitious manuever to back-door amnesty for 1.2 million illegals, you should contact your Senator now!

Barbara Boxer, Escondido, USA

If you are living today, and potentially have the opportunity to extend your life, and the only risk to doing so, is eliminating the opportunity for life for someone else who doesn't yet posess it, why wouldn't you opt to use them for your own benefit? What's the dilemma? That's the luck of the draw

Seymour Mengele, Brattleboro, USA

This type idea is simply "Frankenstein" science become reality.

John Moyna, SPOKANE, WA, USA

Pray that you never become a cure for a disease.

Biff Meister, Anderson, SC, USA

and so goeth the Empire...... sad.....

Ian, Woodstock, USA

We sow what we reap.

MC, Erie,

Will the same people who protest the introduction of bio-engineered foods into the food supply object to this? My guess, they won't. And, by the way, just because an American thinks this new type of tampering is questionable, it doesn't necessarily mean they are some kind of religious zealot!

Louise Czuba, Darien, U.S.A.

Its right for this research to be allowed, America seems to be too caught up by religion to explore the possibilities, England is obviously more open minded. This has restored my faith in my country a bit more. The talk about ethics and religion from a negative perspective are very narrow minded.

lora, sheffield, england

Cynthia*, Ohio, USA
No Cynthia, we are not "stupid and gullible" we've actually read the proposals and are not fooled by the wild monster stories that you tabloid junkies love so much.

Anna, London, UK

The problem with a democratic vote is that the populace do not have the appropriate information to make a choice. It seems MPs were presented with this information.

To all doubters, read the scientific literature and you will be much reassured about almost all of the arguments brought up here.

Luke, Cambridge,

but seriously... i want one

Matt, NY, USA

what will come out of it is a socalled human the oinks and smells bad.

R.S.Newark, Norwood, U.S.A.

This is another example of People playing the role of God. you should not mess with nature. an animal is an animal and a human a human. mixing the two is striving for unforseen consequences.

pamela, new york,

So the scientists who propagate the speculative benefits from this have no vested interest in its widespread acceptance now do they? And "its to help the sufferring" - why who can argue against that! How unlikely it is that this is a deceitful argument meant to justify what wont be accepted othewise

Brian , Georgetown, Guyana

You guys belittle any argument someone proposes because they do not have the "scientific training". Might I remind all of you that it is scientists who come up with the said standards that you base your classification of "life" on. Most people still, and do base life off of what God defines it as.

Aaron, Stanton, USA

I agree an embryo is a "cluster of cells" - but highly specialised cells, that will develop into a person (like you and me), if not dissected, destroyed and flushed down the sink by indulging scientists... The value of life is not determined by how much the parents want (or don't want) the child.

Michelle, King Lynn, UK

Heather Pike, Cambridge, Cambs.

This is my fear. Suppose a cure came if I had advanced Alzheimer's... Any objections from the me on it's morality would be ignored as incoherent babble and I'd simply be forced to recieve the procedure anyways.

Stephen, Bremerton, USA

Some 80% of scientists believe in God. Only a small percentage of journalists do. The scientist characterizes the big bang, etc. The job of a philosopher is to ask logically who lit the big bang. It can be shown logically that God exists. God is merciful, but can get angry. Don't tempt God.

Jim, Cam,

JHoward, FtWayne says "how about the laws of nature?? "

The laws of Nature garanty that these cells CANNOT in any possible way grow to term, neat, huh? What it can do is give better knowledge to the scientist on the subject without using human embryos. Doesn't that make you happy?

Tom, London,

With over population,polution,and depleating resources it's hard for me to grasp the validity of this research. How long is long enough to live? I belive that diseases are natures way of completing the circle of life and death. Our life spans keep getting longer and longer.

Alexis, Michigan, USA

Dan, Leicester, USA says:
"This is disgusting. Death is a natural process, even if we find a way to live forever ..."

Wow - here's a new lie to add the monster stories - eternal youth !

Where did your get that one from Dan ?

Sean, Coventry, UK

This whole thing is an illusion, Medical science has not alleviated suffering and these discoveries and breakthroughs are just "magic". You will die in the end.
Believing in anything good coming from this is delusional, since death is the real truth. You are all ignorant not to realize this.

Max, SLC, USA

This is a good decision. I'm glad we're getting a step closer to finding cures for these terrible diseases.

I apologize for the scientifically ignorant, knee-jerk comments coming disproportionately from the USA.

Steve, Bloomington, Indiana, USA

God aside, no one here (even the brilliant USA haters) seems to be concerned about what NEW diseases could be spawned from hybrids!!! Sure no chance it could ever get out of the lab either, just like nuclear bomb tech...

USA, Issaquah, USA

James Croucher, Romford asks:
"Who/what are these poor humans/creatures that are being created?"

There aren't any James. That notion has been invented by religious opponents to the Bill and has no basis in reality.

Ian, Berwick , UK

For our American readers ...
Yo'all may be interested to know that this technology is also being undertaken at several biotech establishments in the USA. So far as I know there has been no opposition or even discussion.

Anna, London, UK

I am a christian and creatonist - this experimenting with human and animal embryos should not be unsettling for the evolutionist - who believe (wrongly I believe) we come FROM animals. This tinkering IS wrong because humans are not derived from animals.

jenna, swindon, uk

when led a stray do you look back after the first step or after MANY have been taken?

b, USA,

As the nucleus encodes all of the genes that define development, neurotransmission etc, then the result would be essentially 100% human.

The other 0.01% presumably refers to mitochondrial DNA, which does not regulate any human-specific traits.

The term "hybrid" is being wildly misused here

Paul Taylor, Winchester,

Thelma,

As life itself is subjective, how can unborn life have intrinsic value?

Paul Taylor, Winchester,

Most, if not all, of the objections to this bill described here seem to be based on flawed knowledge. A brief analysis of the scientific literature should reassure doubters that these embryos will never progress to the stage where they can be described as "human". They are just clusters of cells.

Luke, Cambridge,

Embryonic stem cells have been shown to be dangerous, and not cause a cure so it must be a desperate attempt to save face and not loose funding that caused the Welcome Foundation (and its spokesman Lord Winston) and the various "research bodies" to persuade the Government to support this bill.

Phelim McIntyre, Liphook, UK

Cynthia*, Ohio, USA

The same work is currently being undertaken in the USA.

Anna, London, UK

It is truely worrying to see how many religious zelalouts there are on the other side of the atlantic, willing to attack research they don't understand, and also the number of people willing to comment so openly on subjects and work they have no understanding of

For once MPs made the right choice

Paul, London, UK

Taff, Newport, South Wales:

A separation of Church and State is great, but should not become a separation of ethics and State. That is what's happening nowadays.

Pascal Calu, Oostende, Belgium

Just for the record, this is not new technology. Many variants are in progress, notably at the Advanced Cell Technology Company in Massachusetts, U.S.A though it is noticeable that domestic opinion in the USA does not seem affronted by that. Perhaps the Advanced Cell Technology Company's significant contribution to American GDP gives some comfort to the indigenous Christians.

Melanie, London, UK

I can not believe how stupid and gullible you people are to think that these horrendous experiements are going to benefit you somehow. It was a ploy to get this thing passed! Open your eyes England! You've just been used/screwed! Is there no intelligent life over there? Think about it!

Cynthia*, Ohio, USA

Isn't it wonderful to read all of these replies by the 'religious' sect that seem to want to, in the name of God, hold back scientific advancement for the possibility of cure a cure for some painful terrible diseases.

In the name of your god we must let people suffer.

Nice huh ?

Paul, London, UK

Those who do not support the research on religious grounds should remember that the official and repeatedly stated position of the churches in the UK was that MPs should be given a free vote on the matter.

A free vote means the freedom to vote either yes or no. MPs have done exactly that.

Sean, Surrey, UK

Paul, Stafford, USA
You quote FICTION.
Very appropriate.
So do most of the religious prophets of doom who are busily inventing this monster scenario.

Sean, Coventry, UK

This is human pride talking. Why I shouldn't use inoculations, aspirin, or have surgery I say what does that have to do with this? You are mixing your logic. Next you humanists will say it is all right to grow body parts, to harvest what we need since these are not human. Bunk and hooey.

Mike, Kokomo, USA

Since neither church nor government can decide when life begins the more advanced questions will also go unanswered.
Do these embryos have souls, do they feel pain? Will PETA represent their rights or will there be a new group of fanatics created to make life miserable for the rest of us. Hmm...

Seanmahair, Wichita, USA

What has never been made by nature should not be attempted and made by man.
Brian Peters, GulfCoast Florida,

That's TRUE. Throw away your reading glasses, don't you use that microwave oven and how dare you go to church? That building is COMPLETELY unnatural and we should shun it.

Rob Grikmeer, Poole, UK

How easy it was for our MP's to declare them-selves, as none
religeiouse bunch, or is that to pick-up few votes, how far will
they go, to stay in power????????????????????????????

Cllr Ken Tiwari (Independent), Oxford, United Kingdom

For those of you who do not respect a loving creator God who allows mankind the freedom to choose His ways of love (ie. His son coming to die to take away our evil so we can have a relationship with Him) or go our own way (which leads to more evil and death) - how about the laws of nature??

JHoward, FtWayne,

Disapointment / Shock / Disgust - these words are not profound enough to describe how I feel. UK is supposed to be a democratic country. Making such a significant change to law, should've been voted on by the whole public. I guess us small people are too simple to understand the value of life

Thelma, Nice, France

This is honestly no different than using animal organs or tissue to heal people. The idea that someone will raise an embryo into a full blown organism is ridiculous and considering the nature of the process, impossible. It's really no different than that if you think about it.

Tahko Tetsujin, Tempe, AZ, USA

julie, sutton: "will scientists 'accidently' allow one of these hybrids to grow up and be tested on" No. These are not embryos in the sense of a sperm penetrating an ovum with a full set of maternal regulatory genes,. Those hybrids could not implant in a human uterus, far less grow to term.

Peter, Whitby,

I feel sick. Who/what are these poor humans/creatures that are being created?

James Croucher, Romford, Essex,

This is disgusting. Death is a natural process, even if we find a way to live forever we do not have the resources on our planet to sustain a much greater population than we have today?

Dan, Leicester, USA

Oh why not?

I mean, what could go wrong?

Maddie, Chicago, Illinois

Strange that all the talk of "monsters" and "killing embryos" seems to be being invented by those with religious inclinations, as a deliberate slur. None of those terms fit the reality of the science under discussion. Surely religious folk can make their point without malicious invention - and surely they can bone up on the real facts !

Anna, London, UK

That's not dumb or crazy, That's just wrong

Mike, Kevil,

"Your scientists were so preoccupied whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should." Climatic and pivotal scene in Jurassic Park, a fictional account that explores the dangers of biotechnology by Michael Crichton.

Paul, Stafford, USA

RCOG supports the collection and use of umbilical cord stem cells. Medical advances have already been made using these stem cells - why do MP's think that a hybrid will produce better results to treat human diseases than 100% human cells? No-one else in Europe thinks it's a good idea! God complex?

Hannah , Sheffield, United Kingdom

God had his chance - and right royally screwed it up by allowing innocent people to be the victims of all sorts of ailments and unspeakable diseases.
So now let's take our fate into our own hands. Let's face it, we couldn't do worse.

Tony Jones, Grantham, Lincs

for sure this is a dangerous road to go down. driven by greedy scientists that want more funding / career advancement.

Steve, Belfast,

Kevin
Of course no one would wish to see such a 'thing' grow to maturity and that is not being proposed. So what is the point of asking the question? Scare tactics?

Tony Jones, Grantham, Lincs

Rev 13:1-8

Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.2 Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.3 And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast.4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying,"Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?"

5 And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months.6 Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven.7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
NKJV

PASCALE DECAUDIN, YORKTOWN, USA

The MP's who voted for creation of human animal embryos are totally without ethics and totally without morals. While they are in power they think they are God. They return to the dust just like animals when they die and then they are judged by God for every act they commit.

Raf from Australia.

HELEN, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

If anything positive comes of this research will those who object on religious grounds be refusing the benefit? I suspect not.

Heather Pike, Cambridge, Cambs.

Adrienne - When will you realise that God is a delusion suffered by the masses due to generational indoctrination? Religion is nothing more than a device used to control the masses. The more we learn, the more this is realised. Religion is losing it's grip on society. That in itself is beautiful.

Taff, Newport, South Wales

The ignorance of the public, especially the Americans, is truly amazing. This is NOT about Dr. Moreau. These scientists are going to implant a Human nucleus into an EMPTY animal egg. In excess of 99% of the donor eggs DNA will have been destroyed and includes ALL the inherited material.

Airwick , Rockville, USA,

to the person who asked how do we know that embyology research is not a gift from God, that is akin to asking how do we know that any murderer is not a gift from God. They areen't, it's what humans do with their gift of brain power that results in this absolute aboration of evil.

p.jay, anyplace, usa

Brilliant news. Thank goodness the self-righteous and religious are few and far between in British politics. Next time you detractors fall ill, go visit a church and leave those "unnatural" hospitals to us heathens.

S. McCarthy, Sheffield, UK

Government funding will now be channelled into human embryonic experimentational therapies at the expense of other ethical therapies. So it seems those with debilitating diseases will wait longer for their 'cures'

Pat, Newcastle upon tyne, UK

For those who consider science to be more intelligent / wiser than God, you are wrong. Man must not tamper with God's Natural Order. "Declare the past, diagnose the present, foretell the future; practice these acts. As to diseases, make a habit of two things — to help, or at least to do no harm."

Adrienne, WNY, USA

So the government is sanctioning what is already happening in private labs all over the world. This is the correct step to take mankind into the future. All those who condemn this I assume have never taken an aspirin, had innoculations or had surgery performed!

Mark, Hong Kong,

Looking forward to those "true hybrids" or are they already available out there?

Belen, SZ, P.R.China

Kevin W, Slough says:
"Would you see such a thing grow to maturity?"

Sorry Kevin, you don't understand the issue. Your postulated (grow to maturity) is about as daft as waiting for a lamb chop to "grow to maturity".

At least you have the honour of belonging to a large group of people who are crying "Shame" without any notion of what they are protesting about - but you really do need to read something more informative than the tabloids.

Melanie, London, UK

Agreed Robert B. Follow the money. Look at the big corporations behind genetically modified foods and what they're trying to do to the small and/or organic farmer. Hint: It isn't about concern for starving people in the world.

Susan , Delaware, USA

To those who applaud this decision, I ask: If Nazi medical experiments would yield genuine scientific knowledge, would you therefore accept them? And if someone opposed them for moral reasons, would you accuse them of "standing in the way of science" or of being "religious fanatics"?

Gary, Budapest, Hungary

mini me's for everyone

Dr Evil
Secret Underground Bunker
Cheshire

mike, chessington,

I can't believe how deluded certain people are.

Do you seriously believe that any cures found through this research will ever reach those that need them? They will be sold in order to make obscene profits. The truly needy will feel none of the benefits.

The last few years have shown us that.

Robert B, York, England

The unconscionably proud Liberal Elitism being vomited here truly epitomizes a blind, fool-hardy face-first dive into the Brave New World.

Yes, the self-aggrandized 21st century Liberal Elite has indelibly marked a new zenith in it's Quixotic quest for enlightenment though self-destruction.

Matthew, South Portland, USA

All I can say to all those who were opposing this on religous grounds is

How do you know that embyology research isn't a gift from god.

To just assume that it's not gods will on the basis of a book from 2000 years ago is plainly a bit daft.

keith, liverpoool, U.K,

Interesting observation. Most negative comments come from Americans. It means that in the USA archaic religious dogmata still prevail over the logic and knowledge and it, in its turn, means that the USA not a democracy but a theocracy. Poor people (

Timofey, Moscow, Russia

The decision to create hybrid animal human beings is extremely sad. The enormity of this step dwarfs the decision to drop nuclear bombs in the second world war. Killing the embryos after a few days does not diminish the terrible abuse to the sanctity of human life and to God.

Patrick Pullicino, Canterbury, UK

Firstly, I am not an anti-American far from it, but the comments posted here in the main by Americans show a remarkable lack of both knowledge and intelligence on this issue. We are talking about 14 day old cells maximum with about 5% of specifically focussed animal gene implants. Grow up.

Andrew Wakeling, London, Uk

Melanie, I doubt you speak for most people in the country, but even if you did, denying that we have "God-honouring Judeo-Christian roots" is simply wilful denial of our cultural origins. Religion aside, creation of human/animal hybrids debases humanity. Would you see such a thing grow to maturity?

Kevin W, Slough,

thankfully a decision has been taken that puts the needs of people - and in particularly the most vulnerable, the sick - first.

meanwhile the church has shown its true colours: once again it insists that its dogma must trump human suffering.

a good day.

Hugh, London,

I seem to remember a German political party from the 30's and 40's performing similar medical experiments for "the common good."

Knock yourself out, Europe. Just pass the popcorn, please.

Oh, and Malenie, someone forget to pass you the memo that secularism is a religion unto itself. Enjoy.

Gavin, Tucson, USA

No-one is suggesting that these 'humano-animal' embryos will EVER grow beyond a few days old. The scare mongers' worries about 'pig-man' are foundless. Many US comments are critical - where were they when the US accepted GM food as routine? Eating that must be far more risky!!!

David L, Brussels,

The sad thing is that funding will be almost exclusively channelled into barbaric embryo research leaving other already more successful therapies with little chance to progress. It seems the sick are going to have to wait longer for their 'cures' at the expense of scientists' game

Pat, Newcastle upon tyne, UK

I think this is a step in the right direction. I'm glad to see the government take a bold stance on this one.

Most negative comments seem to show a lack of understanding and views based upon supersticious nonsense.

JB, Taunton,

makes you wonder, will scientists 'accidently' allow one of these hybrids to grow up and be tested on

julie, sutton, uk

Whatever your views on the moral/religious debate there are practical issues. Positively, alleviation of suffering - is this not something we'd all agree to be a good thing?
But - how far do we carry this? 'Stocking up' on spare parts? Aren't hybrids more susceptible to new diseases?

Worrying!

Jill, Norfolk, UK

European "socialized" medicine can't even treat its current population with known diseases and known cures in a timely manner, causing many to die in the queue.
What good is some future cure if nobody can wait around long enough to receive it?

Or am I being too obtuse?

Gavin, Tucson, USA

Michael, Seattle - Are you aware that the founding fathers of the USA intended a seperation of church and state? one free of religion? Thomas Jefferson spoke of a wall of seperation. James Madison spoke of "perfect seperation". It is the politicians that followed that corrupted their ideals.

Taff, Newport, South Wales

To be able to prevent, and possibly cure, some of the terrible diseases is extremely laudable. But, "Quis custodiet ipsos custodes"? How do we prevent technology being used to pervert Human Life? We need to know what checks and balances are being applied.

Peter H, Guildford, UK

"How long until this "evolves" into people/animals/hybrids being bred for spare parts to keep "their betters" alive? "

Sounds exciting! Could I get this on the NHS? Actually, I'd really like to have a clone made, so i could beat him with a stick and keep him in a box. The future is so bright! :D

Greg, Northampton, UK

'"Religion has no place in government?" What an idiotic statement.'

This from someone living in a country with a wonderful Constitution keeping church and state separate, attempting to keep religion and politics entirely apart. Would that it were really so...

The rest is just irrational fear.

Sean Tyrer, Dublin, Ireland

Thanks Be to God.....just kidding. I just hope they continue to do this, reason must out way old thinking about a mythical creature that knows my thoughts...

danny, las vegas, usa

MP's are like sheep - their job comes first and anything else is second !!!!

Ian Payne, WALSALL,

No matter what mankind is created by God or through natural evolving, Life is limit as physical and intelligence are also limit. Male and female should have their own properties. Human science Technology develops such supernatural ability. All supernatural in fact is not natural. Moreover. It is not fair for people in poor countries as they have no money to transform their sickness gene. Rich country becomes superiority. They can use money to serve themselves even to buy other's smile.

s leung, melrose, scotland

I'm sure as we speak now, scientists with liscencing for this work are cackling insanely as they put the finishing touches on there cowpighumans, lactating udders attached to the heads of innocent children and pigs with hands playing the piano watched with adoration by humans with beaks.

samarius, Leeds,

To Wullus of Scotland: Free votes was allowed by GB to all Labour MPs. I agree, it's utterly unethical to mixed human and animal embryos for the purpose of finding potential cures, as much as to allow another human being to suffer a slow and agony death.

choy, london, uk

The UK as a world Leader is Tarnished forever.

Kevin in Kuwait, Kuwait City, Kuwait

margaret, horsham, uk asks:
"Why should MPs religious beliefs be less valid than secular and humanistic ones"

Well precisely because most people in this country do not claim "God-honouring Judeo-Christian roots" as you do and do not want the myth-based views of a religious minority to be foisted on our entire population.

By all means cherish your religion but do not try to force it on others.

Melanie, Brighton, UK

Monsters from the British "scientific" elite? A separation & affirmation of species & gender is not a "religious" prerogative, but is intrinsic to both the natural & holographic orders of creation. Those who approve such folly, have abandoned common sense in this alleged house of "commons." Pity!

Eliezer, Vancouver, Canada

I believe this decision to be amoral; another political decision taking us away from our God-honouring Judeo-Christian roots.Most cures have come via adult stem cell research which harms no one. Why should MPs religious beliefs be less valid than secular and humanistic ones represented in government

margaret, horsham, uk

"Religion has no place in government?" What an idiotic statement. Did it ever occur to you what laws in civilized societies are largely based on? How long until this "evolves" into people/animals/hybrids being bred for spare parts to keep "their betters" alive?

Michael, Seattle , USA

Even from a theological standpoint, how are human-animal embryos, created for the purpose of medical research, be a bad thing?

If you choose to believe in an omnipotent God, then why not choose to believe that in his omnipotence he could parlay any effort of humanity that he abhorred?

JonnyHero, Statesville, USA

This nightmarish thing is being sold under the pretense of providing invaluable research for human disease prevention and treatment, but frankly those who make the laws have been duped or pressured into permitting it. What kind of "things" will they create, and who will stop them? Nightmare!

Harry, Boston, USA

I'm confused...

"It is legal to culture admixed embryos up to 14 days and illegal to transfer them to a human or animal womb."

Er... what would happen if one day they were transferred to a human or animal womb?!

Tara, Los Angeles, United States

For those keeping track, score another one for the devil.

NCMike, Waxhaw, USA

I am looking forward to the day that my dog can do the shopping and the cows can milk themselves............why not accentuate the positive. It is going to happen you can not uninvent the wheel and as for the 'Against nature' debate....I am nature therefore all I do is natural

Julian Blackwell, alresford, hants

Thom Willets,
The difference however between the animal and the
"blastocyst (an early stage embryo) is not developed - only about 5 days old and consisting of fewer than 200 cells", is that many of us believe the "blastocyst" has had a soul for 5 days.

NCMike, Waxhaw, USA

Absolutely fantastic, hopefully the days of the crazed bible-bashers always getting their way and standing in front of medical and scientific discoveries are coming to an end.

Hibbo, Stavanger, Norway

Hey Tom, He's GOD. He can be a tad "arrogant". Yours' is not to question his ways.

dean, seattle, usa

Excellent. A victory for reason and compassion. Potentially the suffering of millions will be alleviated as a consequence of this enlightened and morally correct decision. Those setting their religious face against it, by contrast, are truly morally reprehensible.

Sean Tyrer, Dublin

Sean Tyrer, Dublin, Ireland

This is really sick. I am all for advancing science, but not this!!!!!.

vincent fertitta, Sr., Beaumont, United States

What has never been made by nature should not be attempted and made by man. To believe that doing such an 'evil' act is going to benefit mankind, is bordering on insanity itself. Life is not so precious to those who can create life in order to tear the lifeform apart for parts like an old auto.

Brian Peters, GulfCoast Florida, USA

God help us! What's next?

M. Summers, Shreveport, USA

Whoa! Someone actually believes it is ok to mix animal and human dna together? I am not sure that a viable fetus would even be plausible. I shutter to think what might happen if it could. Shame on you Brits.

Allen, Hawaii, USA

I am curious to know how those of you who are all for this think that these tiny souls(that are just that A LIVING SOUL) how would theyfeel if they could speak and to the clueless Des, Edinburgh, that asked about where religious people feelings where- These are babies that are being messed with!DUH

Angie, Columbus Ohio, USA

I wish I were born with the muscle and bone fibers of a gorilla, the speed of a cheetah, the eyes of an eagle and the life span of an ocean turtle.

Let's do this!!

Tim, Albany, USA

We live in very interesting times

I wonder if Man will create that half animal, half man creature mentioned in Rev chapter 9 that torments mankind for 5 months. Men will seek to die, but will not be able to.

I will be sitting under the apple tree with a cool lemonade watching this parade

Ron Weiss, Indianapolis, USA

Good, I hope you Brits reap the reward you so deserve. Please keep your just reward on your side of the pond. Thank you!

Arnold Ziffle, Hooterville, USA

boy pe ople are so naive . do yuo think you all going to benefit from this .a big fat no . only the rich &powelful will . the rest meet your maker

fl.campbell, port colborne, ontario

Yeah, I am a very strong proponent of Scientific Exploration; however, I think this is crossing the lines. At least at this point in time. I don't believe the world is in a state to be ready for this particular scientific endeavor.

Casey, Corn Valley, USA

The Island of Dr.Moreau---is here

jmichael, Los Angeles, USA

Scott Hodgins from Canada

This may come as a shock to you, but one needn't be religious to consider humans above all other life forms. Sheesh!

BTW, it's also interesting how these same types are so quick to consider religious humans as 'below' other humans.

Mary Catherine, Elmhurst, USA

Let's see if those who are opposed to such research have the courage of their convictions to refuse any subsequent therapies which emerge should they or their loved ones come to suffer the terrible misfortune to develop a dehumanising neuro-degenerative disease.

Yinka, London, UK

Science takes another brave step forward.

At least some parts of the world are willing to let science advance and work in new and exciting ways to help combat the once thought incurable ailments that many struggle with today.

I fully support this endeavor and eagerly look to the future.

Rip, Cincinnati, USA

Madmen, what have you done?

Paul Francis, Brisbane, Australia

Get ready to be bitch slapped England.

Mike, New York, USA

So, this is the genesis of ManBearPig. The horror, the horror,...

Randall, Shelton , USA/WA

Unreal. Scientists have been chafing at the bit to delve into playing God for a long long time and now the politicians give them a chance. Half human, half animal? Scientists will say anything. Most of their claims are based on pure speculation. And to allow this type of thing to happen?

Anna, Portland, USA

I am a social and fiscal conservative. I have also recently attended a lecture by Dr. Stephen Minger, one of the lead scientists at Kings College in London spearheading this research. The scientists on this project have one goal in mind, a cure for debilitating ailments. Ingenuity lead to this!

Steve, Phoenix, USA

Human life is sacred, and that is why this research is rightly being allowed. To stand around and watch people die of cruel conditions, when research like this can lead to a cure, is unethical. If there truly is a God, and he creates this suffering for a "higher purpose", is he not a tad arrogant?

Tom, Liverpool, UK

Truly our legislators have no boundaries.

And why not. It's all about money and did Gordon Brown allow a free vote like the other main parties.

Of course not.

wullie, Luss, Scotland

It is blasphemous to mix man with animal(Hybrid) to make a new creation???
There is no single evidence that Hybrid will help us to find the cure of many diseases.
Many people have forgotten the unkown dangerous effects of transferring animal virus/germs to human.

Dr A.Majid Katme, London, UK

Totally agree David Batteau. Some choose to try to play God. I am saddened by the thoughts of what our children will be dealing with in their times. God help us!

Dee, San Antonio, USA

I have had the dibilating incurable disease Rheumatoid Arthritis for 9 years now and could in no way support this type of research even if it could cure me today. Crossing this line by mixing human DNA with animal is wrong.

Mya, High Ridge, Missouri, United States

Sounds all too familiar. Remember the medical research in Nazi Germany in the last century? Intellectuals would often debate the value of destroying life in cruel experiments for the medical knowledge that was gained. Our "progressive" society today is no better. What side of humanity are you on?

fred , san francisco, usa

To: Zak, Jasper, AL. USA
Yes Zak...Just for you we will create live creatures that will ultimately die. Pigs with human brains, Humans with pig brains et al.
You self-centeredness defies description. Myabe you are the result of an experiment...did you ever think of that?

Bill, Granite Falls, USA

Welcome our brave new world. Wring your hands but do you think for one moment if this type of experimentation is banned in the free world, that is the end to it? The genie is out of the bottle and the only question remains is where do you want to see it cultivated? From a cave in North Korea perhaps

Martin, Seattle,

No my friend from Lafayette, nothing is sacred, nor should it be.
"Sacred" is a construction, a device, useful to the ruling elite
as a means of social control, and so it has been throughout recordeded history.
PS: Was`nt Lafayette a Frenchman who screwed us Brits ?

Peter Bolt, Redditch, UK

Suffering was put upon Man for a reason--it will ALWAYS be a part of life and serves a higher purpose..I don't care what your disease or malady. I myself have suffered all my life from several. The extent of the perversions that he will go to to eradicate it is now far beyond the pale.

John Doe, Oz, USA

NCMike, a living developed animal tested on is tortured, maimed and killed in the process, in most cases.

Human life is not harmed in the process of stem cell research. The blastocyst (an early stage embryo) is not developed - only about 5 days old and consisting of fewer than 200 cells.

Thom Willits, Limmared, Sweden

Does the thought of the Island of Dr Moreau arise for anyone?

Boaz, Sonora, USA

This is the most disturbing thing I have read in a long time. Anyone who is not deeply concerned about where this could go is not thinking clearly, or not thinking at all. My God, people. Is there ANYTHING sacred left?

Leslie Alexander, Lafayette, LA , USA

Why the outcry against using animals for testing purposes, but the emotional justifications for using human embryos for stem cell research?

NCMike, Waxhaw, USA

The idea that juvenille diabetes could be cured from this research is amazing. I have had it for nearly 11 years now and i would love to be rid of the burden of it. All these people against it need to grow up a bit and put their religious fervor aside.

Zak, Jasper, AL, USA

It frightens me how people are so eager to sign off on this without considering all of the ramifications, ethical or otherwise. I doubt that the scientists involved in this research are as interested in finding cures as they are in satisfying their curiosity or making a name for themselves.

Rich, Glendale, U.S.A.

If your daughter had diabetes, as does mine, you would be thankful for efforts to eradicate this cruel disease called juvenile diabetes. Easy to pontificate when you don't have any skin in the game. Get real. Help people.

Gary Jones, Carterville , Illinois

I think we must be fair here, it isn't correct to say that those that are for this research do not have morals and those that are against it are religious fanatics. Yes, this research is promising on many levels. Yes, this research is scary on many levels. I honestly don't know what to think of it.

Ian, NYC, United States

This is just wrong, period. It's totally against the laws of nature as well as basic common sense. I don't care what supposed benefits could potentially be realized by it--it's just wrong.

Teresa, New York , USA

Reasonably, I cannot purge the images of greek mythology from my mind after reading this article. Half man, half beasts roaming and flying throughout the plannet. On a more serious note however, if this research will broaden treatments or cure some or many genetic diseases. I'm for it!

Scott, Cuyahoga Falls, OH, USA

How typical that the Americans make the most uninformed statements. Pig organs have been approved for human transplants where a human donor could not. An alternative is better than nothing. This can be regarded as an extension of that. Note, these hybrids will not be born... if you read the story.

Thom Willits, Limmared, Sweden

Lori - another thing - You say nothing good will come of it. How do you know for sure? Scientists seem to believe that the opposite is true. What leads you to believe that the results of this research won't be good? What good are you talking about as it seems very different to the good i understand.

Taff, Newport, South Wales.

First of all, I'm not against this. There is the potential to help a lot of people who suffer from very debilitating diseases. I'm just not sure if it is something we should meddle with.

Ewan, Falkirk, Scotland

Sorry, do not agree with this at all.

Cheryl, cuyahoga falls, ohio, U.S.A.

So the future of genetics is mixing animal/human DNA? I am shocked at how many people seem to think this is OK. You don't think we're opening Pandora's Box here? I have family who is afflicted with some of the diseases listed here...but there have to be other ways. Nothing good will come of this.

Lori, Warrior, United States

I've had my faith restored in this government. How anybody can believe that this is anything other than a good thing show nothing but a deep ignorance. If any MPs voted for the ban based on their religious beliefs, they should be removed from office. Religion shouldn't have a place in government.

Taff, Newport, South Wales.

Its nice to see that people can be grown up about this decision. Yes Rick, some 'evil' scientist somewhere is now working on his plan to create creatures!?! and David, this technology has the potential to help cure millions of people of serious conditions, not just old people extending their lives.

Joe, London, England

I agree with David, I truly believe that playing with something that from the time of our known creation can only lead to something terrible. Consider this, we may be able to create new cures with this but there is an equal chance that we may create new diseases and dangers to the world.

Simon, Nottingham,

As the sister of a 26 year old tetraplegic man I heartily welcome this decision. Those who oppose it should consider the real and daily suffering people like him face and put their squeamish 'morals' to one side - after all, how moralistic is the advocation of such suffering anyway?

Elisabeth, London,

I think this vote was an excellent result.
To David Batteau who posted earlier I would like to say.... Its not about postponing the inveitable death, its about improving the Quality of living .
My bet is you do not have a disability Dave,
It gives hope to millions of people both young and old

MrHull, Hull, uk

Best wishes to the scientists involved. Many of us know people who suffer from serious diseases, and we know it is best that treatments are sought. I do not understand the position of religious leaders who turn a blind eye to the suffering of millions.

Des, Edinburgh,

I can't believe it ! .......... MPs actually making the right decision. Maybe there is hope for Britain after all.

Steve, Bath,

Advancing genetics is hugely important for our future well-being and survival. The only real deterrant in this research is conservative religious types who get offended anytime someone suggests humans aren't divinely created and above all other life forms.

Scott Hodgins, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada

This is good news, the days of greek mythological creatures like the minotaur are one step closer to reality.

Rick , Manchester,

Wow,

What a truly disgusting decision. It is amazing to what lengths old men & women will go to postpone their inevitable death. Baby parts and the most foul torture of human consciousness in animal/human chimeras are the new fountains of youth.

-David

David Batteau, Woodland Hills, United States