European Union (EU) politicians have agreed a compromise on funding research on embryonic stem cells (ES cells) . The decision will mean that EU funds can be given over to existing projects, but funding for any new ES cell research will be subject to a moratorium for at least one year. The funding programme will officially begin in November and the European Commission will have to develop new rules on the use of human embryos and stem cells by December next year, or the moratorium will continue.
The EU had previously set aside 17.5 billion Euros to fund ES cell research in Europe over a five-year period. But last month Germany, Austria, Ireland and Italy objected to the funding because of ethical concerns about the research, which necessarily involves the destruction of embryos. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) argued that ministers had already agreed to the research guidelines that were to be followed and had promised not to amend them.
Both sides were ready to agree to the new compromise, despite the initial lack of money for new projects. Last week, only Italy voted against the compromise, although this did not block its passage.
Sources and References
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EU stem cell deal gives researchers reprieve
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European bodies reach an uneasy truce on embryonic stem-cell research
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