David Jones: The prospect of cures from animal-human hybrids is not based on credible predictions but on spin and empty promises

The question: Should we allow research using human-animal hybrid embryos?A year ago the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority granted licences to allow the creation of part-animal part-human embryos. Cow ovaries were to be taken from the abattoir, the eggs extracted, cow DNA removed and human DNA inserted.The resultant animal-human embryos, it was claimed, would help cure a range of diseases. Gordon Brown argued passionately:Scientists are close to the breakthroughs that will allow embryonic stem cells to be used to treat a much wider range of conditions, especially those affecting the brain and nervous system … I also see the profound opportunity we have to save and transform millions of lives through this strand of medicine.No doubt Brown, whose own child has cystic fibrosis, was desperate to believe the promises of scientists such as Professor Chris Shaw of King's College who claimed that, "this technique has the potential for very important...

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